Recent Posts

Pages: 1 2 [3] 4 5 ... 10
21
~*~Burn that Bitch in Effigy~*~
Backstage during the last Climax Control

The Colorado night was clear, if a little humid, for the particular time, but at least the stars were sharp against the summer night as the velvet sky darkened even more above Suplizio Field. The roaring of field noise faded in the distance as the show still took place, replaced out here by the low, grating squeak of dolly wheels rolling across concrete.

Bella Madison stood just outside the loading bay doors, her arms crossed over her chest, hair pulled back with the strands that fell from the loose bun that she had tied in. She watched as the SCW ringside crew wheeled away what remained of Mercedes Vargas’ effigy, a melted mannequin placed in a now charred director style chair, scorched beyond recognition, bits of singed synthetic hair clinging to its blackened skull. A stuffed plush leech dangled from one twisted plastic shoulder, bobbing with every jostle of the dolly.

It smelled faintly of burnt plastic and cheap perfume. Bella inhaled deeply anyway, satisfied.

She didn’t look away until the dolly hit a seam in the pavement and jostled the effigy sideways, one limp arm flopping toward the ground like it was trying to wave goodbye.

For a moment, she let herself enjoy the satisfaction, the primal, cleansing thrill of it. Watching that stand-in for Mercedes Vargas, and for everything she represented, reduced to ashes had been almost therapeutic.

Almost.

She drew in a long breath and released it slowly, tasting the acrid tang of burnt polyester on the back of her tongue. She didn’t even turn when footsteps approached behind her, the tread familiar as her own heartbeat.

“[/color]Well...” Malachi’s voice was warm, low, threaded with an amused edge, "Are we feeling better about things now?

Bella tilted her head as she kept her eyes on the effigy, her lips twitching into a half-smirk, "
Meh? I mean, it was fun,” She finally glanced over at him, her sky blue eyes glinting under the parking lot lights. A breeze lifted a few stray strands of her hair, carrying away the last curls of smoke, "But no,” she added, "I’m not satisfied, not yet at least.

Malachi leaned one shoulder against a concrete pillar, crossing his arms as he studied her. His dark hair pulled back in a tight ponytail, the hair that had gotten crazy long even for him, considering he used to keep it short and tight for years, even when they got married, "
Not even after roasting Vargas and her... parasite? By the way, we all got a good chuckle out of that,” he asked, jerking his bearded chin toward the now-distant mannequin, which was being unceremoniously loaded into a dumpster.

Bella exhaled, a dry little laugh escaping her, "
Setting that plastic bitch on fire felt amazing. But I won’t be satisfied until Mercedes is gone back to her hole and I’m holding my Internet Championship again.

Malachi’s smirk widened, proud and a little wicked, "
Atta girl.

Bella stepped closer, her voice low as she poked a finger lightly into the center of his chest, "
I’m done biting my tongue, Mal. She keeps acting like she’s some fucking queen bee around here? I’m going to remind her exactly who built MY kingdom brick by brick while she was busy reciting the same tired lines for ten damn years while contributing nothing of substance but hot fucking air.

His grin softened into something fonder as he tilted his head, amusement crinkling the corners of his eyes, "
Remind her all you want, mo chroí. Just save a little of that fire for Summer Xxxtreme.

A dangerous spark lit up Bella’s eyes, "
Oh, I have only just begun, and by the time I am somewhat close to being finished, I plan on burning the whole fucking place down.

Malachi chuckled under his breath, sliding an arm around her shoulders and steering her gently back toward the building, "
Jesus, your da would be so proud.

That caused Bella’s eyes to shine even brighter, “
He already messaged me with some critiquing but he loved it.

Malachi just laughed and held her a little closer, “
Of course he did. Come on, you lil pyromaniac. You’re buying dinner.

Bella shot him a look as they walked, one brow raised, “
Fine. But I’m ordering dessert first. I earned it.

Their laughter echoed off the concrete walls as they disappeared into the glow of the arena lights, leaving only the faint scent of smoke lingering in the cool summer air.

-----

~*~There is ALWAYS Room for Improvement~*~
Back to New York for a bit

The humid buzz of a late New York afternoon clung to the trees like static, heavy with the promise of summer rain. Out past the house and down a worn gravel path, the old barn sat like a cathedral built for war. The doors were thrown open wide, letting in sunlight and the absolute thinnest of breezes, that did nothing to mask the low, rhythmic sounds of effort inside or the humidity.

Inside, Bella Madison hung suspended from a set of thick ropes, her arms trembling from the strain. Sweat dripped from her brow, soaking into the neckline of her tank top. Her jaw was tight, her focus absolute. A flash of muscle in her arms, a hissed breath, and she hauled herself forward to the next grip: a vertical board with narrow fingerholds carved along the edges.

She clung there, fingers curled like talons, her manicured nails be damned, before launching herself up and grabbing hold of the next obstacle in the sequence: spinning nunchuck handles that dangled from chains. Her body twisted mid-air as she swung and caught them, just barely.

The landing was a stumble. She dropped into a low crouch, panting hard, then pushed herself to stand.

"Again," she muttered to no one in particular, voice hoarse, "Run it again."

The barn, once a place for simple sparring drills and free weight workouts, had been transformed into something bordering on absurd. Metal scaffolding and wood beams stretched across the ceiling in complex patterns. Monkey bars, cargo nets, pegboards, rope climbs, hanging rings. It looked less like a wrestling gym and more like a challenge designed by someone who wanted to break her, before the match ever had a chance.

But this? Bella had designed it herself, because the match at Summer Xxxtreme wasn’t just another wrestling bout. It was Ultimate X, over the pool. Which meant if she wanted to win back the SCW Bombshell Internet Championship, she wasn’t just facing Mercedes Vargas, she was also facing Lilith Locke. And gravity, and pain, and fear, and failure wasn’t an option.

Out in the middle of the barn, Alanah O’Connell stood with a stopwatch in one hand and a bottle of water in the other, brows raised as she watched her sister-in-law reset at the starting line, "You realize this setup looks like it belongs on TV, right?" Alanah asked, a hint of awe and concern laced in her voice, "Like, you could film a whole season of American Ninja Warrior in here."

Bella gave a quick shake of her arms, loosening the lactic acid burn, and shot a look over her shoulder, "Good," she said simply, "That’s the entire point."

She turned her attention back to the course and took off again—leaping, swinging, gripping, hauling herself through the gauntlet of obstacles that mirrored the demands of the Ultimate X match.

Mercedes isn’t going to out-talk me this time,” she grunted between breaths, "Lilith isn’t going to out-crazy me,” She launched up to a knotted rope that swayed under her weight, wrapping her legs around it to climb, "And no one, ABSOLUTELY no one, is going to out-train me.

Alanah watched her, shaking her head slowly, part impressed and part unsettled, "You’re going to kill yourself trying to get that title back."

From up in the rafters, where she was now maneuvering across a suspended beam with only her fingertips and a prayer, Bella grinned, "Better me than them.

Just as she dropped to the mat below with a hard thud, landing in a crouch, Malachi appeared from the far end of the barn, arms folded across his chest, one eyebrow arched, “Alright, love,” he called out, his Irish lilt thick, “So you can monkey-bar your way to freedom. But you think Mercedes or Lilith are just gonna let you climb that X without a fight?

Bella narrowed her eyes, "I’m counting on them trying.

Malachi strode over to a set of wooden crates stacked near the far wall, each one stenciled with heavy black letters: 75 LBS. He picked one up, effortlessly balancing it against his shoulder.

So,” he said, carrying it over to the rig, “What happens when the ropes start shaking? Or when they’re trying to pull you down? Or when you have to kick them off you in mid-climb?

Bella watched him warily, "Where exactly are you going with this?

Mal dropped the crate with a thud near the base of the rope climb, “Simple...” He pointed up at the rig, "You don’t just need arm strength. You need to be able to knock two grown-ass women off you, women who weigh as much as these.

He grabbed a pair of heavy sandbags from a rolling cart, each one marked 135 LBS—about the average weight of Mercedes and Lilith. He rigged them to a pivoting arm attached to the upper scaffold, swinging them so they’d dangle across the path Bella needed to climb.

New rule,” he said with a wicked grin, "You get past the spinning bars, you climb the rope, you get to the cross-beam… then you have to use your legs to knock these bastards off the path.

Bella stared at him, incredulous, "Are you kidding me right now?

Malachi stepped back, arms spread wide, "This is Ultimate X, Bells, over a pool. You think either of those two lunatics aren’t going to grab you mid-air and try to yank you down?

Bella glared, chest heaving as she wiped sweat from her brow.

Alanah let out a soft groan, "Jesus, you two are insane.

Mal just smiled, leaning in close enough to drop his voice, "You’re not just going to win this match because you’re faster. You’re gonna win because no matter what they throw at you, you’re still standing...Or hanging. Whatever.

Bella’s eyes flicked between Mal and the swaying sandbags. Slowly, a grin spread over her flushed face.

Alright,” she said, tightening her ponytail, bouncing on the balls of her feet, "Bring it the fuck on.

She leapt back onto the course.

Moments later, the barn echoed with the thud of sandbags being kicked off their pivots, the scrape of chains, and the low, feral laughter of a woman who’d decided she was going to be unstoppable, no matter how heavy the load.

Malachi just stood there, shaking his head, a glint of pride, and maybe a little terror, in his eyes. Meanwhile Alanah knew that they were indeed perfect for one another. He knew exactly who he’d married.

And Summer Xxxtreme wasn’t ready for her.

-----

~*~If Not...Then What’s Next?~*~
Rainy Afternoon

Rain pattered lightly against the windows of the O’Connell bedroom as Bella zipped the final suitcase closed. The muted grey sky outside cast a soft light across the room, glinting off the metal clasps of the luggage and the array of swimsuits, sundresses, and ring gear still strewn across the bed.

Malachi knelt beside an open duffel bag, carefully rolling up a couple of his T-shirts. He paused, glancing over his shoulder as Bella tried, unsuccessfully, to force a second pair of black boots into her carry-on.

Love,” he said, voice gentle but edged with amusement, “We’re going on a cruise, not into the bloody Himalayas.

Bella scowled, half her body weight leaning into the suitcase, "Have you met me?” she shot back, "I’m not showing up on that boat without options.

Mal chuckled under his breath and got to his feet, wiping his palms on his jeans. He watched her for a moment, the smile fading slightly as the silence stretched between them. The only sound was the faint tick of rain on glass and the rumble of the impending thunderstorm that was about to hit.

Bells,” he said finally, his tone shifting, “Can I ask you something without you getting mad at me?

She hesitated mid-shove, glancing up, "I mean I could say no but knowing you.” She smirked for a moment, because she knew what was coming with how he phrased it, “Sure babe, go ahead.

He crossed the space between them, bracing his hands lightly on her shoulders. His thumbs traced circles against the curve of her collarbone as he searched her face.

If...” he began, then stopped, exhaling. He tried again, "If things don't go your way at Summer Xxxtreme...if you don’t win the Internet title back, what’s next?

Bella’s expression didn’t falter right away. But the weight behind her eyes slipped through, carving a fine line between her brows. She swallowed, dropping her gaze to the floor, “I don’t know,” she admitted, her voice softer than it had been in weeks, "I mean, I think I do, but...” She shook her head, "The truth is, I know this might be it, when it comes to the Internet Championship, at least. Two reigns, that’s not nothing.

Mal’s brows drew together, a flash of protectiveness sharpening his features, "That’s not failure either, Bella.

I know that Mal,” she murmured, sliding away from him to sit on the edge of the bed. She picked up one of Máire’s tiny stuffed animals, a battered blue elephant, and turned it over in her hands, "I’ve been in SCW for six years. I’ve had my moments. I’ve made my mark. But I also know how this business works.” Her thumb brushed across the plush ear, "They’re always looking for the next big thing. And if I’m not careful, that’s gonna end up being some part-time bitch riding in on a Queen for a Day contract, or Lilith Locke looking to make a name off me.

She lifted her eyes, fierce again, "And I’ll be damned if that’s how my name goes down in the books. I’ll be damned if Mercedes, of all people, gets to be the reason people say Bella Madison finally gave up.

Mal sat beside her, resting his forearms on his knees, "Then what are you fighting for, if it’s not just the belt?

Bella’s lips twisted into a half-smile, "Partially for us and the other part is for myself. My pride & everything I’ve built.” She huffed a humorless laugh, "I want that title back because I still feel in my heart of hearts that it’s mine. But more than that, I want people to remember that you don’t just push me aside. That you don’t count me out because I’ve got a kid, or because I’ve lost a few times. That not one single soul wrote my story for me.” She glanced sideways at him, "I guess, if I lose, maybe it’s time to figure out what’s next. Maybe that’s a new division. Maybe it’s a whole different path. OR maybe, we give Máire that little brother or sister. I don’t know yet.

Mal reached over, gently plucking the elephant from her hands and tossing it into Máire’s half-packed backpack, "Whatever it is, you’ll figure it out. And I’ll be right there.

Bella snorted, "Even if it’s me deciding to run off and start a wrestling school in Bali?

Mal grinned, "I’ll pack my shorts.

She let out a genuine laugh, leaning in until her forehead pressed against his, "God, you’re such a sap.

He kissed her lightly, "Yeah. But I’m your sap.

They sat like that for a moment, wrapped in quiet comfort as the rain continued tapping the windows.

Then Bella pulled back, her eyes shining again with something fierce and bright.

Come on,” she said, standing abruptly, "Help me figure out how to fit the boots. I’ve got a title to win and a couple of bitches to toss into the pool.

Mal stood with her, taking the boots and opening up the main suitcase, "Now that’s my girl.

----

~*~Rules of Engagement: Cleansing with Fire~*~

Outside the O’Connell house, the air hung heavy as though the sky itself was holding its breath. Ominous thunder rolled somewhere distant over the Hudson, and the darkened clouds churned like smoke over the treetops. A cool wind rippled through the grass, rattling the wind chimes that hung beside the porch steps.

Bella Madison sat alone at the top of those steps, elbows braced on her knees, fingers tangled in the ends of her hair. The storm was close. You could taste the electricity on your tongue. She raised her eyes, staring out over the lawn that stretched down toward the woods, her expression carved in steel.

Slowly, she sat upright, rolling her shoulders back. Her voice broke the silence, low, steady, every word measured like the cocking of a gun.

I hope you’re listening, ladies. Especially one BITCH in particular...” She paused, her lips twisting around the name like it was bitter in her mouth, "Because it’s funny, isn’t it? Mercy, for all your talk about how you’re the standard, the quote-icon-unquote, the woman whose name belongs on the marquee. When it came down to it, you didn’t have the guts to stand in that ring with me and Lilith at Climax Control.

She curled her hands into fists, eyes burning as the wind lifted strands of her hair around her face.

But here’s the thing, at Summer Xxxtreme, you don’t get to run. There won’t be shadows for you to hide in, or cameras to play cute for while you keep the championship tucked under your arm like a goddamn purse, or an ample opportunity for Crystal to plant her lips so firmly on your ass that she can smell your farts and know what you had for breakfast and more likely dinner. You wanna be the Internet Champion? Then you’re gonna have to work for it.

Thunder cracked overhead. Bella didn’t even flinch.

You’ve been living off your past glories for too long, Mercedes. It’s all ‘Vargas this’ and ‘Vargas that.’ You think people are just supposed to bow down because you’re still collecting a paycheck here. Well, I’m not bowing and I’m sure as hell not leaving my name to be some footnote in your Wikipedia page that I know you take your time updating because you sure as shit don’t do anything else on the internet but retweet about sports that no one gives a FUCK about. That belt you’ve got? The one you parade around like a trophy? That’s mine. You may have beaten me for it, but I built my name on that championship. I fought for it and I bled for it. And I will be absolutely fucked that I am not letting you use it like some cheap prop to remind the world you still matter.

Her eyes narrowed, dark and dangerous.

And Mercy, I need you to understand something crystal clear: I don’t give a rats fucking ASS about your records, or your accolades, or how many times you’ve held gold. I don’t even give a fuck that the record still stands that I still OWN your ass. None of that means shit to me when we’re both hanging above that pool, reaching for the same title.

She leaned forward, teeth gritted.

And when it comes time to choose between you and me? I’m choosing me every single time.

Another gust of wind rushed over the porch, carrying the distant scent of rain. Bella dragged in a breath, her shoulders rising and falling as she shifted her focus.

As for Lilith Locke,” Her tone softened a fraction, but only a fraction, "Lil, you know I like you. Hell, a part of me even respects the balls it took for you to throw your name into this match, you have EARNED this shot. You’re talented. You’re fearless. You’re exactly the kind of chaos that makes this business fun.

She pressed her lips together, eyes clouded.

But don’t get it twisted, sis. Just because I like you doesn’t mean I’m gonna let you come into my territory and steal what I’ve worked for. You say you’re hungry? Good. So am I. And there’s only one meal being served at Summer Xxxtreme.

The sky rumbled again. Bella’s gaze dropped briefly to her hands, then lifted back out to the yard with new resolve.

This whole thing, this match, is happening in my element. On that Princess Cruise, under the lights, over that pool? Ladies, that’s my home turf. That’s my ring. I signed my contract at Summer Xxxtreme and I’ll be damned if I let either one of you make a name off me and leave me floating face-down while you wave my title around for the cameras.

She rose from the steps slowly, step by step, until she stood at the edge of the porch. The wind whipped around her, rustling the trees until they seemed to hiss with warning.

I may have cashed in my rematch clause to get here but that doesn’t mean that I didn’t earn this. And that’s why I’m not leaving Lilith out of this fight. Because I know what it means to be hungry enough to do anything. I know what it’s like to claw your way into matches people said you didn’t belong in.

Her voice dropped to a ragged whisper, "But I’m not letting either of you take this from me.

She stepped off the porch and onto the damp grass, walking a slow circle around the house, "You want my championship? You’re gonna have to rip it from my goddamn hands. Because I am willing to burn it all down, everything I’ve built, to protect what’s mine. My name. My legacy. My title. I have come too fucking far to just say fuck it all and NOT expect anything less from me.

She stopped suddenly. Then, moving with a precision that spoke of long practice, Bella reached into her hoodie pocket and drew out a zippo lighter. She flicked it open, and a tiny tongue of flame sprang up in the dark.

She dropped to one knee and touched the flame to the line of accelerant she’d poured hours before, hidden in the grass around the entire perimeter of the house.

Instantly, a ring of fire blazed to life around the O’Connell property, casting Bella in a flickering, hellish glow. The flames rose higher, crackling, spitting embers into the storm wind. Bella stood tall at the center of the circle, hair blowing wildly around her face, eyes alight with the same fire she’d unleashed.

Mercy, Lilith and Bella. SCW Bombshell Internet Championship aboard the Princess at Summer Xxxtreme.” She pointed toward the horizon where the lightning flashed, "Come and try me.

And as thunder split the sky above her, Bella Madison stood alone, defiant and unbreakable, framed by the ring of fire she’d built, daring the storm and her rivals to come any closer.
22
Supercard Roleplays / Nightmares and Dreamscapes
« Last post by HBCarter on July 12, 2025, 08:40:32 PM »
GO Gym-
Las Vegas, Nevada

“I’m a little surprised that you stopped by to train today.” Aron Baltasarsson admitted as he watched the reigning World Heavyweight Champion Carter McKinney step through the ropes of the six-sided ring. “I would have thought you’d be putting the finishing touches on your travel plans.”

“Yeah well…” Carter said as he gingerly slid to the floor from the ring, the grueling training session having obviously taken its toll and worn him out. “... I still have things to do but I thought I should get in one more. God knows if I’ll have the chance on the ship.”

Carter sighed, reaching blindly for the water he had placed in the corner of the ring, Aron taking notice that his mindset was not entirely where it should be.

“He’s getting to you.” Aron observed as Carter took a seat on the edge of the ring apron, drinking deeply from the water. The younger brother of Fenris was always observant to the world around him, a trait that annoyed the volatile Fenris greatly. Carter looked up and raised a brow questioningly. Aron emphasized, “James. He’s getting to you.”

“I’m not letting James get into my head.” Carter insisted, but he could feel the slightly critical stare of his Gym mate firmly set on him. Carter could remember from the very first day he set foot inside of the GO Gym, and he remembered with both fondness and trepidation just how hard the Stevens were on him. Initially, Carter firmly believed that they were doing it in an effort to get him to quit, thinking that someone like him had no place in the sport.

Nothing could have been farther from the truth.

Gabriel and Odette both had an immense amount of faith that this young man had what it took in order to make something of himself, to be able to stand out. But behind their hard training tactics was a method to the madness. Not everybody was suited for this business and their regime helped to weed out both the weak.

Carter was neither. He was too pig-headed to allow anyone to keep him from realizing his dreams, and in the end? Everything paid off. Which was why he took relatively no offense to Aron’s criticisms about his mindset going into this title defense against one of the very best that ever set foot inside of the six-sided ring of SCW.

“Look, I know that J2H is not as great at mind games as he likes to think.” Aron smiled. “Far from it. He’s just an outspoken prick and he uses that to get under people’s skin.”

“Yeah well,” Carter slid from where he was seated on the ring apron to the floor, leaning back against the ring and his eyes staring ahead vacantly at absolutely nothing. “It comes naturally to spoiled little rich bitches like him. I want nothing more than to just shut him the fuck up. Everything he’s been saying about me. Talking like I don’t belong where I am and acting as if he already deserves to win the title, like it’s already happened…”

Carter scoffed and continued, “He acted the same way with your brother when those two had their match and look what happened when he lost. It broke poor James.”

“You want to humble him, right?” Aron asked quietly, Carter noting that this tone was when the wheels were definitely turning in the recesses of his mind. Carter acknowledged this with a nod, to which Aron continued with his line of thought, “Up until that fiasco with Jayden, I can remember just one person who made James tap. The same one that James is doing everything to try and gaslight and sweep under the rug like it never happened.”

Both men turned their heads to look across the gym to where their mutual eyes fell upon the aforementioned Icelandic Superstar Fenris, who was standing at a punching bag, wearing nothing more than a pair of white shorts and boxing gloves. The former champion raised hell on the bag with lightning fast jabs coupled with the random kick that threatened to rupture the bag. Fenris had stepped away from the sport a fair few years prior but he never let his training lapse into non-existence.

Carter turned back to look at the expectant stare of Aron and he shook his head, “No. No way!”

“Why not?” Aron asked. “Can you think of anyone better than to teach you to break J2H’s body down into a fractured puzzle with no way to put it back together?”

Carter turned and simply stared at Fenris, the very thought of asking him for any form of help as alien to him as the idea of mustard on French fries. The two never got along. Not since Fenris turned down Carter’s romantic overtures years ago, thus bruising his ego to the point of no return. The two had said many things - hateful things - to each other over the years and only recently were bridges at the beginning stages of being mended.

“He’s never going to let me hear the end of this, is he?” Carter sighed as he reluctantly walked toward Fenris. Aron quipped wisely behind him, “Probably not.”

From the corner of his eye, Fenris saw Carter approach but as soon as Carter got the opening words, “Kristjan, can I-?” Out of his mouth, Fenris already answered, “Yes.”

“Yes?” Carter blinked. “Yes … what?”

“Yes.” Fenris resumed striking the bag with lefts and rights, each strike harder than the last. “I will help.”

“Just like that?” Carter asked, clearly caught off guard. Fenris did not break his stride as he continued and simply nodded. “Why?”

To which Fenris finally stopped and turned to glare at Carter, but the angry glance was not for him but the subject at hand. He answered, “Because I want to see that little shit fail just as bad as you do!”



Who knew that preparing for a cruise that doubled as both a working vacation as well as a relaxing getaway could have been so strenuous?

If it wasn't the last minute training, it was dragging Miles to the mall for an impromptu shopping spree. Miles would have been just as happy wearing the same things this year as he did in 2024, but Carter would not hear of it. So they got an all new cruise wardrobe and that just left the typical decision of what to do about Ms Thang, as the cruise did not allow for pets. Under any other circumstance, they would have left her with the Baltasarsson brothers but Kristjan and Aron would be on the cruise. That left their erstwhile neighbor Oliwia.

Oliwia was only too happy to help and Ms Thang “tolerated” her so that was the best outcome that they could have hoped for. In fact, her exact words were, “Oh yah! I'll take care of your pussy for you!”

The sun had just dipped behind the horizon, finally giving the “City of Sin” some blessed relief from the smoldering triple digit temperatures of the summer months. Carter was lounging on the sofa in the living room of the condominium in the Turnberry Towers, sipping a glass of red wine while absently watching an episode of the Sandman. Everything felt just as it should be, with the exception that Miles was not yet home. Miles had opted to spend the day with his brother.

Carter spent the next few minutes, whittling away at the time by watching a tense exchange between Morpheus and his sibling - and Carter's favorite character in the Sandman series - Desire, when his phone vibrated. Figuring Miles was texting him to tell him he was on his way home, Carter checked and frowned at the message received…

“Don't ignore me.”

Figuring it to be a wrong number, Carter quickly flicked off a rapid fire response, “Wrong number.” Before standing up and heading for the wine rack for a refill. Before he got two steps, his phone vibrated a second time.

DON'T FUCKING IGNORE ME!!

This time, Carter did what he should have done in the first place. He immediately deleted the message and blocked the number behind it. He shook his head as he crossed the threshold of the condo and picked up the bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon, a wedding gift from Grams toward Miles and himself. He popped the cork and went to pour a refill for himself when he frowned and held up the bottle to examine it a touch more closely.

Empty.

“Terrific.” He sighed as he set the bottle back down. He could have sworn there was more - at least half the bottle as Miles and he drank it sparingly, given the special nature of the gift. He instead set the now empty wine glass in the sink and opted to lay down, perhaps a cat nap before Miles returned home. Miles always told him he didn’t need to stay up and wait for him when he was out, but that was always exactly what Carter did and Miles was grateful for it. But Carter had been up since the crack of dawn, putting the finishing touches on everything that needed done before he and Miles set sail on the Princess cruise, and to put it gently? He was whipped.

So he returned to the living room and lounged back on the sofa, Ms. Thang hopped off as if the action were an affront to her Royal Highness. The feline wandered off further into their home’s interior and Carter watched after her briefly with a touch of amusement before he turned off the lamp and laid back and got comfortable. And it was no sooner that he closed his eyes than he heard the door to the condo open up, heralding Miles’s return home. He thought Miles would have texted him first, he always did, but it was no real big deal.

“Miles?” He sighed deeply, listening as Miles’s footsteps crossed over the threshold between the front door and where he laid in the living room. The footsteps drew closer but they were too soft to the ears, too slow. Something felt wrong before opening up his eyes to the figure standing above him.

“You’re not Miles.”

The cold fingers closed around his ankle and dragged him forcibly off of the sofa where he hit the floor in a state of panic. Carter shot upright but found Miles kneeling down in front of him, both of Carter’s wrists grasped in his own hands. Carter was shaking violently and his widened eyes stared straight ahead into Miles’s own obviously concerned stare.

“Bloody hell, Carter!” Miles looked him over with concern, taking notice for the first time that Carter’s normally lightly tanned flesh was pale and covered in a cold sweat, and his body was trembling erratically. “What was that all about…” His brow furrowed deeply.

“Why are you on the floor?” Miles asked with genuine concern and it took Carter a brief moment to clear the fog of sleep and dreams from his mind, as was normal for anyone who had just suffered a nightmare of any degree. Carter’s gaze strayed past Miles to the large bag set on the floor, laden with their dinner from Marigolds, an Indian restaurant the both of them had grown fond of.

“Just a dream…” Carter mumbled, lowering his head, eyes downcast.

“Dream my arse.” Miles stood up, helping his husband to his feet. “You’re shaking. That must have been some nightmare.”

“I’m fine.” Carter insisted, his hand on his forehead as he tried to will himself to forget the feeling of a figure cloaked in shadow standing over him so easily. Of the fear of being attacked in the relative safety of his own home. Miles watched him, not believing him entirely as he reached down for their dinner and he placed a gentle hand on his husband’s back, guiding him toward the island counter that separated the kitchen from their living area.



“Let's talk facts.”

“J2H is one of the greatest Superstars to have ever set foot inside of an SCW ring. Not the greatest of all time, not any more - but still! Runner up isn’t altogether that bad. A four time World Heavyweight Champion and between those four reigns? J2H held the title for a grand total of 613 days. His first reign broke all sorts of records when he held the championship for 400 days, a record that was only recently broken by Finn Whelan and soon enough perhaps - Victoria Lyons as well. But here’s another little tidbit of information. Another fact, if you will. Two of those World title reigns? J2H vacated the championship willingly and without reason. In his own mind, he had nothing else to prove other than the fact he could still win so why bother defending it?”

“And it wasn’t just the World Championship our esteemed legend pulled that stunt with. Two separate times he won the Roulette Championship and both of those times, he threw the title away rather than defend it like a real champion should and would. Hell! The last time he held the Roulette gold, he didn’t just vacate the title. He gave it away! To Caleb Storms of all people! Not that I have anything against Caleb but try and explain that particular title reign with any semblance of pride to your loved ones. ‘Hey Mom, hey Dad! Guess what! I’m a champion! No, I didn’t earn it by beating the champion. He gave it to me! … I know, right!?’”

“The funny thing is the first time J2H abdicated the championship, I and many others could have looked past the fact. But then he opted to make it into a habit and tuck his tail between his legs and duck challengers rather than risk showing the world that he was as vulnerable as any other man walking the face of the planet! Noo! Not J2H! He has an image to maintain! Because if he doesn’t keep up the illusion that he’s absolutely unbeatable, where would he be today? He acts like championships are just props for his ego. He doesn't want the pressure. He doesn’t want the target on his back. He just wants the recognition without the responsibility. Defending a championship? That’s what a champion does! Not you though James, and that’s why you sure as hell don’t belong anywhere near a championship because you can’t be trusted enough to do what’s right by that title!”

“So why is J2H once again in the world title picture? It’s because he doesn’t know who he really is unless there’s gold in his possession. It’s like he needs the World Championship the same way a crackhead needs that next rock. Losing his mind when he doesn’t have it. He paces around backstage, not because he wants to be champion but because he doesn’t know how to function without it. Me? I defend it. I make it mean something more than just a tool for some addict to remember who he is. The fact is that J2H doesn’t love wrestling. He doesn’t love this company or the fans. He loves the attention. The cheers he didn’t earn and the respect he demands but never gives. And every time he snatches a title, he vacates it like a crash hit too fast and he’s gotta disappear until the withdrawal sets in again.”


Fenris stood in front of Carter, demonstrating with sharp precision as he lowered his stance and wrapped an arm snug around Carter’s neck, guiding him into position. He pulled Carter’s head down and stepped to the side slightly, showing how to lock the arm under the chin and clamp it tight with the other arm, folding the grip and arching the hips.

“But since we’re on the subject of respect, let’s talk about that for a moment, shall we? That’s all that you really care about, isn’t it J2H? That’s your whole thing. Every time you show your face around here, it’s the same tired song. ‘Respect me, remember me, recognize my greatness!’  Deep down, it’s not about respect at all with you. What you want is worship. You don’t care about earning it, you just expect the red carpet to be rolled out because of what you did years ago. You walk around backstage like everybody’s supposed to bow down and kiss your feet just because you deigned to show up. You expect the red carpet treatment without recognizing that you are still just the same as anyone else backstage. Just less likable, and certainly less interesting.”

“Tell me, who even likes you James? I can think of maybe two people and all of them have poor qualities of their own at best. You really surround yourself with ‘yes men’ who act, walk and talk like you. Especially when things don't go their way. I mean you had Giani Di Luca and even Casey Williams at one point in time, all cozying up to you because they thought you were the next big thing and they wanted to soak up a bit of that spotlight for themselves. You had Alexander Raven but even he wised up and got away from your toxicity. So who’s left? Ah yes, Kevin Carter. The only person on either roster that makes you look reputable. Then when you get bored or think you’re not the center of the universe, you just pitter patter off when no one is deep throating you because they know you taste like regret and bad choices.”

“You act like respect is a one-way street and you’re the only one that deserves to walk it. You scoff at the new generation, look down your nose at anyone who isn’t tripping over themselves to praise your name, but heaven forbid you show an ounce of that same respect to someone else.”

“You want to be remembered, but not for the right reasons. You want legacy without the work, reverence without humility. You treat the locker room like it’s still 2016 and you’re the center of the universe, but times have changed. This company evolved. You pop in when it suits you, remind everyone how great you think you are, and then vanish again when it suits you. You can’t ask for something you refuse to give. And until you learn that? All you’re ever going to be is a bitter echo of what you once were. And by after I mean when the one point in time when you decided to actually put in effort and evolve from the joke you started as. That is something that I have to respect.”

“You went from being the guy who lost his wrestling debut and his store-purchased Universal championship to Angel the teddy bear, to a bona fide athlete. Someone, who at one point in time, was someone a younger star could look up to and aspire to be like. But now look at you. Wrestling has evolved. You have not. Same boring clothes. Same boring music. Same boring move list that you learned from that hillbilly. You probably think J2H is timeless or some other bullshit. But that look? And everything that you've got going for you over the last decade? It's over. You emulated Austin Parker’s ring style and made it your own. Maybe you think, why fix what isn’t broken? Problem with that mentality is that the more you refuse to evolve and to change, the easier it is to adapt against you.”

“You think SCW needs you. I know this concept is foreign to you James, but you couldn’t be more wrong. SCW didn’t need you the first time you pissed away, and it sure as hell doesn’t need you at the top now. The simple fact is that you need SCW, not the other way around. You need SCW, you need the championship, just to continue feeling relevant. I can remember a time when you used to return as a so-called special treat at High Stakes against some top level talent but even that novelty wore thin and you had to start picking up your own slack and come back more often. Question is, why? If you were everything that you say you are? You wouldn't need to do that. You would have been able to make a clean break. Who knows? Maybe playing house has started to grow old.”


Fenris crouched beside Carter on the mat, grabbing hold of Carter’s wrist and slowly walked him through the setup for the cross arm breaker. Fenris shifted his body and swung a leg over his chest. He showed how to trap the targeted arm between his thighs, secure the wrist against his chest, and pull back with his hips.

“Who knows? Maybe you’re coming after the championship because you can’t stand the fact that your record got broken. No, not just broken. Shattered I believe is the right word. Of course, to hear you tell it Finn was only champion for as long as he was because the competition now isn’t as high level as it was in your day. But have you ever given consideration to the thought that maybe the opposite was true? You literally sniff out whoever you think is the weakest champion at the time, like some geriatric great white shark. You did it with Todd Williams. You tried to do it with Austin James Mercer and Tempest - and failed. And now here we are once again. You literally do not try for a title if it's somebody you don't think you can take. Because you don't want to challenge, you just want another notch on your already padded resume. And when you find a champion you think is vulnerable? That's when you strike. Which really explains why you never stepped up to challenge Finn to try and keep him from breaking your record because you see him as a true threat to your legacy. For all your rich boy bravado, you were smart enough to know when you're outclassed.”

“You spend so much time and effort, assuring yourself that you have to win, that you deserve to win, that you don’t know how to handle it when you lose. Half the time you cry ‘I don’t need you!’ and take one of your usual sabbaticals until everyone forgets about your loss and then you come waltzing back in. Look at what happened when you had your big match against Fenris! You were all over social media then, just like you are now, talking about how the match was a done deal. And what happened? Fenris made you tap out! You spent how much time just wandering around like a lost little zombie, whining and bitching to the world how you were supposed to win that match and crying about backstage politics. That’s really ironic considering I heard the very same whispers about that win you got over Despayre in your match in Japan!”


Fenris knelt beside Carter on the mat, motioning for him to spread himself out flat on the canvas. Fenris wove his arm under Carter’s armpit and around his neck. He then locked his hands together and rolled them both sideways into a gator roll, ending with Carter on his side and Fenris tightening the hold.

“Let’s talk about the fact that you can’t get through two seconds of your life without using it to sulk in the corner. I know you’re a little rich boy who gets a lot of attention for being who you are, but acting like every place you go to is filled like a pigpen? Yeah, that stink has nothing to do with the place and everything to do with you. From all your entitlement and all your audacity and your primadonna behavior. I’m surprised you’re even wrestling anymore. Wouldn’t want you to break your ass when you fall from your extremely lofty podium you’ve placed yourself on! Look at the fit you threw when you realized you no longer had a private dressing room which was reserved for the champion! And that would be me. You bitched and you moaned and you went crying to the bosses like a kindergartner who had their favorite toy stolen on the playground! I almost - almost - was going to give the dressing room back to you, you know. Not because you deserved it but because I didn’t want to inflict you on the rest of the men's roster. I mean, they didn’t do anything to me and certainly didn’t deserve to have you around, bringing down the mood.”

"You talk every time we see you about being the best, but you're ultimately a washed-up joke trying to cling to scraps of a past that's not long behind you. You've realized what happens when you're not in the spotlight. When the world has moved on and you're still stuck in the rearview mirror, holding onto a reputation that's only as good as the first time you had it. Newsflash! The cameras aren't for you anymore, and no one is going to remember the man who disappears every time the kids get to running. Who the hell is left to give a damn if you think you're big mad, big bad? You've burned every bridge and no one in that locker room gives a damn about you and your pride! Not any more!”

"You get put into big matches because they know you won't screw things up, not because they believe in you. You're nothing more than a fallback. The guy who'll take the fall without making waves in public while screaming backstage because you're so desperate for validation that you think your matches still mean something.”


Fenris sat on the mat with Carter across from him, motioning to Carter’s leg and nodding for him to extend it. Fenris took hold of Carter’s ankle and tucked it under his arm. He leaned back, placing the blade of his forearm across the tendon and securing it tightly in an Achilles lock. Fenris arched his back as Carter grimaced from the pressure.

“I have to say, you really changed your mind about me. Haven’t you? I can remember the last time you vacated the championship and you hand picked eight men for the tournament - and I was one of them. You spoke highly of me then, but now? You say that I don't deserve to be the champion as if I didn't work my way up from the bottom. You say I haven’t earned it. This coming from a man who for a time would return only once in a blue moon and coincidentally always make certain that it was against somebody who had championship gold at the time. Just so he could win the title and then throw it back in everyone's faces and leave once again. Why? Because apparently the balls that dropped in your pre-pubescent year have gone back up to where they came from.”

“But me? You think that someone like me shouldn’t be the champion. Tell me something James, what exactly do you mean by ‘someone like me’? Because that statement could be taken a lot of different ways and none of them exactly paint you in a positive light. Are you saying that as an out and proud gay man who doesn’t believe in hiding away from the world, that I’m setting a bad example for SCW? That because I hold my husband’s hand and kiss him in public, that I don’t belong in the spot that I’ve earned? Let me guess! You’re one of those morons who will love on his wife in public. Hold her hand, cuddle and kiss her - but the moment you see someone like me dressed the way I am, act the way I do, and kiss the man I love, suddenly it’s a matter of me pushing my lifestyle off on you!? Do people like you seriously not see the irony - the hypocrisy - when you say shit like that!?”

“And yes, James. Despite what you think, I did earn the place where I am today! I won the Elimination Chamber! I pinned Alex Jones and stripped him of the championship! And you are not fooling me one god damned bit! If you really thought as little of me as you want the world to believe, then you and your man bitch Kevin Carter never would have tried to interfere in my defense against Artie! You wanted me to lose that match for one reason only. You were like a predator sniffing out the weakest animal in the herd and you saw Artie as an easy mark. So you ran out there and tried everything to cost me. Only it didn’t work out as planned and guess what! You still have me! And when you faced Artie that very next week? You may have won but you didn’t have as easy a time as you might have had ten years ago.”

“Why is that, I wonder? Could it be because Artie has improved tenfold and is a lot better than you gave him credit for? Or is it because you simply aren’t at the same level as you were in `16? And to think that you still think of yourself as the apex predator of SCW. But the thing about predators is eventually one comes along that's stronger. Faster. Smarter. One that doesn’t just bite back but one that finishes the hunt. You’re not the wolf anymore. You’re not the king. You’re just someone who is trying to convince himself that he still matters. I’m the one circling now. I’m the one tracking you down. I’m the one who smells the blood in the water. And my being the champion just proves the shift already happened. You just didn’t notice it. But you will. Because the next time we’re face to face, it won’t be a hunt. It’ll be extinction.”
23
C L I M A X C O N T R O L ♦ G R A N D J U N C T I O N • C O L O R A D O

[Backstage at Climax Control, the energy is tense. Mercedes Vargas storms through the curtain, sweat-drenched and scowling, clutching her gear bag. Crystal Caldwell, dressed to the nines and scrolling through her phone, leans against a crate, waiting.]

CRYSTAL
Rough night, Mercedes. Guess Kayla still has your number.

MERCEDES
I’m not in the mood, Crystal. Save the gloating for your vlog.

CRYSTAL (smirking, pocketing her phone):
Oh, come on. You know I’m just here for the business. Besides, the Internet Title scene’s about to get crowded. You sure you’re ready for Summer XXXTreme?

MERCEDES (stopping, squaring up):
I’m always ready. Unlike some people, I don’t need to tweet my way into relevance.

CRYSTAL (shrugs, circling Mercedes): Maybe. But you lose again on the Sun Princess, and management might start looking for a new face. Someone with… crossover appeal.

MERCEDES
(stepping in, voice low): If you want a shot, Crystal, just say it. But don’t think for a second you can outwork me. I’ve bled for this company.

CRYSTAL (grinning):
And yet, here you are—backstage, empty-handed. Maybe it’s time for a new headline. “Crystal Hilton: Internet Champion.” Has a nice ring, doesn’t it?

MERCEDES (smirks): Headlines fade. Legacies last. And mine’s just getting started.

CRYSTAL (leaning in, whispering):
We’ll see. Just don’t choke when the lights are brightest.

[Crystal glides past, her confidence palpable. Mercedes watches her go, jaw set, determination burning in her eyes. The business of wrestling is never just about the ring—it’s about who controls the story.]

[As the roar of the crowd faded, Mercedes Vargas made her way backstage, her night in Grand Junction, Colorado now over after her intense match with Kayla Richards. She couldn't help but feel a mix of disappointment and determination despite the outcome. The clash between these two SCW veterans had lived up to expectations, showcasing their skills and rivalry.

The electricity was in the air even as Climax Control was still ongoing. The crowd was buzzing with excitement after witnessing the clash of titans that unfolded between Mercedes and Kayla. Even with the momentum Mercedes had entered with coming into the night, this latest setback just two weeks before she defends the Bombshell Internet Championship at Summer XXXTreme raised questions about her chances in the upcoming championship match, where she will face tough competition in a high-stakes environment. She knew that Kayla would be a formidable opponent, but she also knew that she had what it took to win. That did not happen this night.

While her recent setback may have shaken her confidence, Mercedes has the experience and skill to bounce back. Mercedes knows she'll need to regroup quickly and focus on overcoming this defeat to compete effectively against multiple challengers at Summer XXXTreme in her quest to reclaim her status as a top contender in Sin City Wrestling.]



Blog: Almighty Fire
semana del 7 al 13 de julio de 2025

Let’s address the elephant in the room, shall we? At the go-home show at Climax Control, Kayla Richards pinned Mercedes Vargas. I know, I know. Cue the confetti, light up the group chats, and let Kayla have her moment in the sun. She earned it. For one night, the stars aligned, and the universe decided to give her a taste of what it feels like to stand above the rest. Trust me, it’s a view I know well.

But let’s not get carried away. Losses happen. One match doesn’t rewrite history, and it certainly doesn’t rewrite the standard. I’m not going to pretend it didn’t sting—losing never sits well with me. But unlike some, I don’t need to throw a tantrum or blame the ref. I don’t need to post cryptic messages about “injustice” or “bad luck.” or "having a bad night." Sometimes, you get caught. Sometimes, the other woman has your number.

See, the thing about being at the top as long as I have is you learn to treat setbacks as setups for the next act. Legends don’t crumble after one loss. We recalibrate, we refocus, and we remind everyone why we’re the ones they’re still talking about when the lights go down.

To the fans and the other Bombshells who suddenly found their voices after last night—enjoy it. I know how you love an underdog story. But don’t get too comfortable cheering for the flavor of the week. Because while the rest of you are busy debating who’s next, I’m already planning what’s next. That’s what separates icons from idols. I don’t follow the conversation—I am the conversation.

If I were Bella Madison or Lilith Locke, I wouldn’t get inspired. I wouldn’t mistake a stumble for a downfall. My career’s been built on comebacks, on turning “could have beens” into “never agains.” If anyone thinks one loss changes everything, let’s look at the so-called contenders waiting in the wings.

You know, the more I watch Bella and Lilith, the more I realize they’re not threats—they’re cautionary tales. Bella acts like she’s owed something, as if the world is just waiting to hand her her next moment. In this business nobody is owed anything. Every accolade, every headline, every second of spotlight—I earned it while she was still rehearsing her entrance in the mirror, hoping someone would notice her. You want to talk about hard work? Try being the benchmark everyone else is measured against, carrying a division while every challenger aims for your crown. That’s real pressure. That’s legacy. Bella and Lilith wouldn’t understand—they’re too busy following trends to ever set them.

This business doesn’t care about your feelings or your excuses. It cares about results. About who stands tall when the smoke clears, who raises the championship belt high enough for the whole damn world to see, and who leaves a legacy that outlives the fleeting applause of a moment.

Bella and Lilith? They’re just part of the noise. Background static in a symphony that I conduct. They think they’re storms, but they’re just passing clouds—loud for a second, then gone without a trace. I’ve been through hurricanes, wildfires, and earthquakes, and I’m still here. Still standing. Still the one everyone is chasing. Still the one setting the standard, raising the bar, and making sure that when people talk about this division, there’s only one name that echoes through every hallway, every headline, and every history book—Mercedes Vargas.

Let me tell you something about legacy. It’s not built on Instagram likes or viral moments. It’s built on sweat, sacrifice, and scars. Every bruise I carry, every sleepless night, every grueling training session—it’s all part of the story that no one else can tell because no one else has lived it. When you’ve carried a division on your back as I have, you learn what it means to be more than just a name on a roster. You become the standard, the benchmark, the queen everyone else tries to dethrone but never can.

There's something almost charming about watching Bella and Lilith try to play the part of contenders. I say “almost,” because after a while, watching someone trip over their own ambition gets a little old. Still, I have to give credit where it’s due: it takes a special kind of courage to step into a spotlight you’re not ready for. Or maybe it’s just a lack of self-awareness. Either way, it’s entertaining.

But here’s the thing: I don’t hate them. I pity them. Because beneath all the posturing and the pyrotechnics, there’s a desperation that’s almost tragic. They want what I have—a legacy, a name that echoes through the halls of history. But they don’t understand that it’s not about wanting. It’s about earning. It’s about grinding when no one’s watching, pushing past pain and doubt, and standing tall when everyone else has fallen.

I’ve seen what happens to those who chase fame without substance. They burn out fast, leaving nothing but ashes behind. I’ve been through that fire and come out stronger. That’s why I’m still here, still relevant, still the queen of this kingdom.

When I first stepped into this ring, I was underestimated. Dismissed. Told I was too small, too soft, too inexperienced. But I didn’t let that stop me. I used it. Every insult, every sneer, every underestimation became a brick in the foundation of my empire.

Bella and Lilith? They’ve had it easier. Opportunities on silver platters, chances to shine without paying their dues. And yet, here they are—still scrambling, still clawing for a foothold. It’s almost sad to watch.

But I don’t hold grudges. I hold standards. And my standard is excellence. My standard is dominance. My standard is being the one everyone else measures themselves against.

I know, I know—this is the part where I’m supposed to be worried. Where I’m supposed to pretend that their little mind games and social media antics are keeping me up at night. But the truth is, I sleep just fine. Maybe it’s because I’ve already seen everything they're trying to be. Maybe it’s because I know that when the pressure’s on, they'll both do what they always do—fade into the background, while I take center stage.

Let’s start with Bella. She’s got that wide-eyed optimism, that “I just got my first pair of heels and I’m going to conquer the runway” energy. It’s cute—like watching a puppy bark at its own reflection. She talks about respect like it’s a birthright, not something you earn with grit and grind. Bella, darling, respect isn’t a participation trophy. It’s not handed out just because you showed up and remembered your lines. It’s forged in the fire of real competition, in the moments when you’re the last woman standing and everyone else is left picking themselves up off the mat.

But I suppose when you’ve never truly been tested, it’s easy to mistake applause for achievement. You want to be the future? Try mastering the present first. Until then, you’re just another face in the crowd, hoping someone mistakes your confidence for competence.

Bella, you’re always chasing—validation, relevance, that one win that’ll finally make everyone see you the way you see yourself.. But here’s the truth: you can’t chase greatness. You have to become it. And that takes more than a few good intentions and a catchy entrance song. The fans cheer for you because they see themselves in you—ordinary, unremarkable, destined for failure. Me? I’m everything they wish they could be: extraordinary, undeniable, and unstoppable.

Deep down you know the truth, Bella. You can’t beat me. And you won’t beat me.

And then there’s Lilith. Oh, Lilith. The self-styled chaos queen. She’s got all the trappings of menace—dark makeup, cryptic tweets, a penchant for melodrama—but none of the substance. It’s all thunder, no rain. You can set the stage on fire, but if you can’t back it up when the bell rings, all you’ve done is give the janitor more work. I’ve seen scarier things in my rearview mirror on the way to the arena.

You see, real power doesn’t need to announce itself. It walks in, and the room gets quiet. It’s the hush before the storm, the tension in the air when everyone knows something’s about to happen. Lilith, you can keep screaming into the void, but until you learn to let your actions do the talking, you’ll always be the background music to someone else’s main event.

But don’t get me wrong—I actually enjoy having you both around. Every queen needs her court, after all. And every story needs its supporting cast. You two play your roles beautifully. Bella, the plucky underdog who just can’t quite get it together. Lilith, the misunderstood villain who talks a big game but never quite delivers. It’s almost Shakespearean, really.

And while you’re busy rehearsing your lines, I’m out here writing the script. Because that’s what real champions do. We don’t wait for opportunities—we create them. We don’t chase trends—we set them. We don’t ask for respect—we command it.

My legacy wasn’t built overnight. I’ve built my legacy brick by brick, match by match, year after year. I’ve been the headline, the standard, the measuring stick. I’ve seen challengers come and go—some with more talent, some with more hype, but none with more staying power. And that’s the difference. That’s why, when the dust settles, my name is the first—and last—one they remember.

Because in the end, it’s not about who wants it more. It’s about who’s willing to do what it takes. And if history is any indication, that’s always been me.

So, Bella, keep practicing your poses. Lilith, keep perfecting your glare. Maybe one day, you’ll figure out that being memorable takes more than a gimmick and a good lighting crew. Until then, I’ll keep doing what I do best—winning.

I don’t need to shout to be heard. I don’t need to set anything on fire to light up the arena. When I walk in, people pay attention. That’s called presence—a word you both might want to look up. It’s something you either have or you don’t. No amount of hashtags or mood lighting can fake it.

You know, sometimes I wonder what it must be like to live in your world—a place where every setback is someone else’s fault, where every missed opportunity is a conspiracy, and where every defeat is just “bad luck.” Must be nice to have that kind of built-in excuse generator. But here’s the thing: champions don’t make excuses. We make history.

I’ve faced tougher opponents, survived harder battles, and come back from bigger setbacks than either of you can imagine. And every time, I’ve emerged stronger. That’s what separates legends from footnotes. That’s why, when the lights go out and the crowd goes home, I’m the one holding the gold. And that's exactly what's going to happen in two weeks at Summer XXXtreme.

So, go ahead—burn all the effigies you want, call me every name in the book, scream, shout, throw your little tantrums, post your cryptic messages, and tell yourself that this time will be different. Maybe it will. Maybe you’ll finally rise to the occasion. Or maybe, just maybe, you’ll do what you’ve always done—fall short, and watch as I add another chapter to my story.

At the end of the day, when the lights go out and the crowd goes home, the only thing that matters is who’s standing tall with the championship in her hands. And that’s never been either of you. That’s always been me. Because when all the noise fades and the spotlight narrows to a single point, there’s only room for one queen. And if you have to ask who that is, you haven’t been paying attention.

So when Summer XXXTreme hits, and the world is watching, I’ll be ready. Ready to silence the doubters, ready to crush the pretenders, ready to prove once again why I am the queen of this kingdom.

But don’t worry, Bella and Lilith—I’ll make sure you get a front-row seat. After all, it’s the least I can do for my biggest fans.

See you at Summer XXXTreme. Try not to blink. You might miss your moment.

Long before you knew, and long after you'll remember.


~~~

SCENE: LATE NIGHT BAR – CITY LIMITS

[The group gathers around a worn wooden table in a dimly lit bar. The buzz of conversation and clinking glasses fills the air, but the mood is heavier than at the party. Irma nurses a drink, Mercedes leans back, eyes sharp, Ricardo watches everyone with a calculating gaze, Tomas fidgets with his glass, and Hugo lights a cigarette, exhaling slowly.

Irma sat quietly at the edge of the table, her fingers tracing the rim of her glass. The laughter and bravado swirling around her felt distant, almost unreal. She drew in a shaky breath, her voice barely more than a whisper as she finally spoke—revealing more vulnerability than she intended.]

IRMA:
Thanks for coming tonight. I needed this… more than you know.

[Mercedes gives a tired half-smile, exhaustion in her eyes.]

MERCEDES:
We all do. But don’t think this means the pressure’s off. Summer XXXTreme is coming, and it’s not just some fun cruise. It’s a war zone.

TOMAS:
So what’s the play? How do you flip the narrative?

[Mercedes looks around the table, eyes locking with each friend.]

MERCEDES:
I lost tonight. Kayla got the better of me. But that’s not the end. It never is. I’m not done—not by a long shot.

[Hugo glances at the tense faces around the table, then suddenly stands, stretching his arms overhead. He grabs a stray cocktail napkin and starts folding it absentmindedly.]

HUGO:
You know what? I’m starving. Anyone else actually eat at Irma’s, or did we all just survive on nerves and cheap wine?

[He waves down the bartender, signaling for a menu, his tone lighter, trying to cut through the tension.]

HUGO:
Seriously, if I don’t get some fries in me, I’m going to start hallucinating. Remember that time at the old place, Mercedes, when you tried to deep-fry a Snickers bar?

[Irma lets out a surprised laugh, the tension in her shoulders easing a little. Tomas grins, shaking his head.]

TOMAS:
And you nearly set the kitchen on fire. I thought Ricardo was going to call the fire department.

[Mercedes rolls her eyes, but a reluctant smile tugs at her lips.]

MERCEDES:
Hey, it almost worked. “Almost” being the key word.

[The mood at the table shifts, the heavy conversation giving way—at least for a moment—to shared memories and laughter as the group orders food and reminisces, the storm outside fading into the background.]

[The bartender drops off a stack of menus with a practiced smile. Hugo snatches one, scanning it with exaggerated seriousness.]

HUGO:
All right, what’s everyone’s poison? I’m thinking nachos the size of my head and, if we’re brave, the “Inferno Wings.” Anyone?

[Irma giggles, finally letting herself relax. She picks up a menu, her fingers no longer trembling.]

IRMA:
I’ll split the nachos, but someone else is taking the wings. I still remember what happened to Tomas last time.

[Tomas groans, rubbing his stomach with mock pain.]

TOMAS:
Don’t remind me. I thought I was going to breathe fire for a week.

[Mercedes leans back, folding her arms, her earlier intensity softened.]

MERCEDES:
Just get me fries. And maybe a milkshake—chocolate, extra thick. If I’m going to survive Summer XXXTreme, I need to start carb-loading now.

[The group laughs, the sound mingling with the low music and clatter of the bar. Ricardo, who’s been quietly watching, finally chimes in, his expression playful.]

[Ricardo leans in with a sky grin on his face.]

RICARDO:
Speaking of carb-loading, you all realize we’re about to spend a week trapped on a boat, right? I hope you packed more than just sunscreen.

[Irma smiles nervously.]

IRMA
I keep telling myself it’s just a cruise. Sun, ocean, maybe a little drama. But Mercedes is right—it’s going to be a battlefield.

[Hugo raises his menu like a shield, holding it between himself and the table as if warding off the tension in the air, his eyes peeking over the top with a playful glint.]

HUGO
I’m just hoping the buffet survives. Last year, I saw grown adults fight over shrimp cocktails. This year, we might have to dodge flying elbows and sabotage.

[Suddenly, Tomas leans forward, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.]

TOMAS:
You know, if the food war gets too intense, we could always start our own rebellion. I call dibs on the captain’s hat.

[Mercedes snorts.]

MERCEDES:
Yeah, good luck with that. The captain’s probably got a black belt in passive-aggressive glares.

[Irma laughs, the sound light and genuine.]

IRMA:
Imagine the chaos if Hugo actually tried to lead a mutiny. He’d probably negotiate peace by offering everyone free fries.

[Hugo pretends to be offended, clutching his chest.]

HUGO:
Hey! I’m a man of principles. But I won’t say no to fries as a peace treaty.

[Ricardo chuckles.]

RICARDO:
At this rate, the biggest threat on the boat won’t be the competition—it’ll be Hugo’s snack demands.

[The group bursts into laughter, the earlier tension dissolving completely. Irma leans back, feeling the warmth of friendship and the comfort of shared humor.]

IRMA:
Well, whatever happens, at least we’ll survive on fries, laughter, and maybe a little chaos.

[Hugo raises his menu one last time, mock-saluting the group.]

HUGO:
To fries, friends, and fiery wings—may the best snack win.

END

Present Day L O S A N G E L E S • C A L I F O R N I A

[REC•]

Location: Paul Smith Pink Wall, Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles
Time: Golden hour, just before sunset.

[Camera opens with a wide shot of Mercedes standing confidently in front of the iconic pink wall. Bold, stylish, and confident — the vibrant pink wall contrasts sharply with Mercedes Vargas’s sleek black leather jacket and chic dress. The atmosphere is urban, trendy, and unapologetically fierce. The light hits her sharply, emphasizing her commanding presence. As the camera zooms in, Mercedes removes her sunglasses and addresses the lens, her tone smooth and polished, laced with cool sarcasm.]

“Well, well, well… Bella and Lilith really went all out, didn’t they? Burning effigies, calling my BFF a ‘coat tail riding leech’—oh, the drama! I was backstage, watching their little circus. The mannequin, the fire—such passion! I loved it, I loved it. Almost adorable, really. If I didn’t know better, I’d say they were auditioning for a daytime soap. But this? This is Sin City Wrestling. Here, you don’t play dress-up and call yourself a contender. You earn your place. You fight for your crown. And you keep it. In this company, it takes more than smoke and mirrors—or a little pyrotechnics on a mannequin—to shake someone who’s built this from the ground up.”

[She smirks, slowly removing her sunglasses and locking eyes with the camera.]

"Let’s get one thing straight: I don’t have to prove anything to anyone. I don’t need to show up every week, waving my arms and yelling to get attention. That’s not how a champion carries herself. A champion commands respect by being unshakable, by making every move count, by knowing when to speak and when to let our actions do the talking."

[She pauses, a hint of a smirk playing on her lips as the city lights begin to flicker on behind her.]

"I’m not here to entertain your little vendettas. I’m here to remind you—and everyone watching—that I’m the champion for a reason. I didn’t just stumble into this title. I didn’t get handed it because I was pretty or popular or because I had some ‘leech’ whispering sweet nothings in my ear. No, I earned it. Blood, sweat, and tears. Every single damn day.

I didn’t get to the top by underestimating anyone. I know what both of you are capable of. That’s why I’m always three steps ahead. While you’re busy plotting your little upsets, I’m planning my next celebration."

[Mercedes stops, looks directly into the camera, her eyes sharp and unwavering.)

“Bella, Lilith, I almost wish you two would team up. Maybe then you’d stand a chance. But let’s be honest, alliances never last long when gold is on the line. I’ve seen it before—best friends, bitter rivals, it all ends the same: with me holding this title. After I beat you both, I’ll send you a postcard from the top—wish you were here.”

[Mercedes steps forward, the city lights reflecting off her jacket as she gestures with controlled confidence.]

"You want a real conversation? Here it is: I’m not running from either of you. I’m just busy building my empire—on and off the ring. While you’re busy playing dress-up with mannequins, I’m out here making moves. So come Summer XXXTreme, I’m not just defending a title—I’m defending everything I’ve built. My legacy. My name. My reign."

[She pauses, a sly smile curling her lips.]

“Now, about that little ‘leech’ you keep talking about—Crystal. Let me tell you something about loyalty. It’s not about clinging to someone’s coattails or riding their wave. It’s about standing shoulder to shoulder, knowing when to lead and when to follow. Crystal isn’t a leech. She’s smart. She’s savvy. And she’s got my back because she knows what real strength looks like.”

[Mercedes reaches into her jacket pocket, pulling out a small photo of herself and Crystal, smiling and confident.]

“See this? This isn’t just a partnership. This is a bond forged in the trenches. And anyone who thinks they can come between us is in for a rude awakening.”

[She tucks the photo away and turns back to the camera, her expression hardening.]

"You can call us whatever you want, but you can’t rewrite history. Crystal and I— we’ve survived every storm, every ambush, every rumor. You want to test that? Be my guest. But don’t be surprised when loyalty outlasts your little alliances and your fleeting grudges."

[She laughs softly, shaking her head.]

"You know what really gets me? The way you two act like you’re the only ones hungry for this. Like you’re the only ones who know what it means to sacrifice. Newsflash: I built this legacy from the ground up, while you were still trying to figure out which side of the ring to stand on. I’ve been breaking records and breaking barriers before you even thought about stepping up. So spare me the sob stories and the cheap shots."

[She steps forward, voice low and commanding.]

"This city? It’s seen legends rise and fall. It’s seen champions crowned and dethroned. But through it all, the ones who last are the ones who adapt, who evolve, who never let the noise drown out their purpose. That’s why I’m still here. That’s why I’m still the one to beat."

[Mercedes pauses for a moment, letting the words sink in. The camera cuts to a slow zoom on her face, capturing the subtle smirk that hints at her confidence.]

“Lilith, I respect your fire. I see your hunger. You want to make a name for yourself, and I get it. We all want to leave a legacy. But here’s the tea: I’m not just some placeholder for your little power struggle. I’m the champion. The one who’s been carrying this title with more grace and grit than either of you ever could. Here's a little advice—don’t mistake ambition for readiness. You came at me once, and it didn't end well for you."

[Mercedes steps forward, lowering her voice slightly, adding weight to her words.]

“Bella, Lilith, you want to send a message? Go ahead. Burn your little effigy. Throw your matches and your threats. But remember this—when the smoke clears and the ashes settle, the one who earned it will still be standing—title in hand.”

[Mercedes turns to face the pink wall, then looks back to the camera, voice dropping to a confident whisper.]

"So, Bella, Lilith—bring your chaos, bring your fire. I’ve faced it all before. When the lights are brightest and the stakes are highest, I don’t just show up—I show out. And when the final bell rings, you’ll remember exactly why I am one of one."

[The camera slowly zooms out as Mercedes walks away along Melrose Avenue, the pink wall glowing behind her, the city alive and buzzing.]
24
Supercard Roleplays / The Cards Don't Lie
« Last post by Eddie Lyons on July 12, 2025, 03:58:44 PM »
Momentum. That's what Eddie had fought for and won a few weeks ago against Aiden Reynolds and Miles Kasey. Momentum for a match that was for yet another opportunity at the championship.

A place Eddie had been before more than once and the only time he had managed to gain the opportunity he blew it.

He couldn't argue when people said his career had run stagnant and he just continues to run in place because it was in fact the truth and Eddie wasn't the type to make excuses for anything.

He didn't know what needed to be changed, but he did know he wasn't done. What he did know is that he wasn't a quitter. What he did know is that he would find what it took and he knew that he would be the world champion one day.

Two things were certain in his life, he was getting married on the Princess Cruise and he was weeks away from becoming a father.

Maybe he can add becoming world champion on top of that.


__________

Eddie stood in the living room of the Las Vegas home holding two certain either hand Spider-Man on the left and Super Mario Brothers on the right, like he was making the decision of a lifetime.

“I don't know which one to take.” [/color]said Eddie “Spider-Man or Mario.”

“Do you need to take any more shirts” said Sabrina “I thought we were already packed. Didn't you pack like fifteen shirts already? You know you're not going to need that many right?”

“So Spider-Man?” Eddie said with a grin.

Sabrina just rolled her eyes and smiled at him.

“I'm still surprised we were able to get you on the ship.” he said, folding both shirts to be packed for the trip. “Pregnant women usually aren't allowed past twenty four weeks.”

“They aren't.“ Sabrina reminded him “That's what the waiver for is remember? Plus me being ex-crew, I was able to pull a few strings.”

“I know it just makes me nervous.” said Eddie, "You're almost into your eighth month now. ”

“It's only for a few days.” Sabrina said “I'm going to be okay. I promise I'm not going to pop the baby out in the middle of this cruise.”

Eddie walked over in out in front of her kissing her softly on the belly.

“Hey Jordan sweetheart.” he said “We're all really excited to meet you but please don't be too eager to get here, please just hang out for a few more weeks okay?”

Sabrina smiled.

“She's listening.” she said.

“Good girl.” Eddie said kissing the baby bump one more time before sitting next to Sabrina and giving her a kiss on the cheek.

There was a moment of comfortable silence between them, their upcoming wedding looming happily on both their minds.

“You know it's still hard to believe all this is real sometimes.” Eddie said “Sometimes I feel like there's another entity writing our lives like we're just characters in their story.”

“Well.” Sabrina said “I can assure you the cramps are most definitely real.”

“Yeah I know.” he said “I'm just saying sometimes it feels like it's a story being written out by someone with a wild imagination.”

Sabrina struck her head with a smile and raise her arms to the sky.

“Almighty Storyteller!” she said sarcastically "Please let the cruise go smoothly for us, don't push me in the early labor for dramatic story effect.”

They both shared a laugh together, as Eddie's phone buzzed. It was a text from Coach Kaiser.

“Oh hey it's from Coach.” he said he says “He's packed up and ready and he'll see us on the cruise.”

-Cool I'll see you there, coach.- Eddie replied in a text.

“I guess it really is real." Eddie said putting his arm around his fiancee, “Next week when we get on the Princess Cruise our lives change forever.”

“I can't wait.” Sabrina said smiling.

“Me either.” said Eddie.

They sat there quietly, arms around each other thinking about the future and ready for whatever it brings the both of them.

__________

The cameras open in a darkened room and the middle amid a single light is Eddie Lyons sitting at a table with the deck of tarot cards in front of him. The camera moves in closer as he looks at it and speaks.

“People don't realize that our business is more than blood and gold." Eddie said “People forget that it's a game of archetypes with everyone playing a role. Some know it, some don't but everyone in this business has a part to play.”

He reaches out and shuffles the deck before him.

“Six names stand between me and where I need to be.” Eddie said “Six archetypes, six different stories tangled together. Each trying to escape what the cards already know because as everyone knows the cards don't lie.”

He reaches out to draw a card and sets it face down in front of him.

“So who's going to show up first?” he said

He flipped the card over and looked at it with a smile.

“The fool reversed…” he said “One full of blind ambition and naivety. This one's calling out to you Justin Smith isn't it? I mean one can't say you aren't earnest. You keep trying again and again and again and you keep coming up short again and again and again. I know I've blown a few big opportunities but you can't even seem to gain any momentum at all yet there you are trucking along.”

He pauses and shrugs casually.

“More power to you I guess.” Eddie said “But we've done battle in the past, and I've told you time and time again you need to find something different. Maybe you need to reinvent yourself because what you're doing now isn't working and it's not going to help you win this match. At Summer XXXtreme, The fool will be cast out to sea.”

He nods to the camera and flips over another card.

“The Hanged Man…. reversed” he said casually “Stagnation. Just clinging to old ideas because they're afraid to change, do you feel this calling out to you Bill Barnhart?”

He pauses and keeps a gaze on the camera.

“I mean how long have you been running a place Bill?” said Eddie “I don't think you realize how willfully ignorant you've become. You show up and you do your little routine and try to sound tough like anybody's intimidated without the ability to realize that nobody's biting anymore. At Summer Xxxtreme I'm going to cut the rope and drop The Hanged Man into the sea.”

With another pause he pushes The Hanged Man card to the side next to The Fool, and he drives a third card. A smile appears on his face as he looks at it.

“The lovers… upright” he said. “This one's calling out to you, is it not Miles Kasey? But it's not just about the love you share with our world champion Helluva Bottom Carter, it's talking about the love you share for this business and just who you are as a person.”

He pauses for a moment tapping his finger on the card.

“You wear your heart on your sleeve Miles.” Eddie continued “And you fight with feeling. You fight like someone who loves it even when it doesn't love you back. We're no strangers to each other, we know exactly what each other are about and in some ways we're a lot alike. I can respect that but there's only room for one of us to move forward, only room for one of us to climb higher and that means the other one gets thrown overboard. You might be the best pure heart in this match Miles, but at summer Xxxtreme I send The Lovers out to sea.”

With that he pushes the lovers next to the other cards and draws another.

“The devil upright “ he said “Well this one has to be calling out to you Logan Hunter. The man who thinks he's been wronged and at the world's out to get him. The truth that everyone knows is you weren't wronged,  Guy with a cape simply outsmarted you. If there's anybody that's been wronged in the situation, it's Aiden Reynolds.”

He pauses again.

“The devil wants power but never knows what to do with it.” he said “He lashes out and manipulates, breaking everything he touches. Then he blames the pieces for not staying together. That is you Logan because everything you've done since losing that championship screams desperation.  You are consumed by the need to control Logan and that will be your ultimate downfall and the cards of your own self-destruction because at Summer Xxxtreme,  I cast the devil into the waters and put out his fire.”

With a slight nod he pushes The Devil card next to the rest and draws another card flipping it over.

“The Hierophant upright.” Eddie said “A preacher of a broken truths worshiping their own self-righteous delusions. Wrapping themselves in their own flag of justice. Does that sound familiar Liam Davis?”

He paused for a moment looking intently into the camera.

“You shouted at Kevin Carter and went on and on calling him a fake a coward a fraud everything in the book.” Eddie said “But did you listen to yourself Liam? Did you really listen? Because I won't deny that Kevin Carter is an assole, but you dug into his family, his personal life and tried to stand on it like a pedesta. Acting like you're some noble hero, like you're doing something for the greater good. I don't call that justice, I call that ego."

He pauses shortly again.

“You can talk all you want about how the big criminals you've dealt with.” said Eddie “But I've got a newsflash for you badge boy, this ain't your beat. This is SCW, this isn't the holding cell, this is the place where you don't get to play judge, jury and executioner. You don't get to flash your badge around here and expect people to stand in line.  You're all noise and fury Davis, and at Summer Xxxtreme it's time for The Hierophant to take a swim.”

He slides the Hierophant card next to the others, and draws another sliding it forward.

“The Chariot….reversed. The one fighting a battle between justice and vengeance.” he said “The one that's battling their own frustrated ambition. This one if you haven't figured it out, is talking directly to Aiden Reynolds. You used to have all the jokes the charm and the charisma the guy who can make you smile while beating you into the mat but now all that's left is resentment and rage.”

He taps his finger on the card.

“Hey if you're going to call me out for running in place then I have to return the favor right?” Said Eddie “Maybe you just said those things about me to light a fire under my ass, and if you didn't notice after I pinned you it worked.”

He winks at the camera.

“You acted like you forgot who I was.” said Eddie “So I had to make it my mission to remind you. So respectfully now, I want to remind you who you are. You should be the Chariot upright, full of willpower and determination steady on its path, but you're not  you're becoming full of aggression with no clear direction. I saw it in your eyes when I pinned you. You know you're not where you want to be but you can't figure out how the hell you're going to get there.”

Eddie pauses for a moment.

“I'm not going to walk into Summer Xxxtreme with any chip on my shoulder.” said Eddie "I'm walking in with the momentum, and I'm going to send The Chariot crashing into the sea.”

He slides the card next to the rest before pulling out one more.

“It wouldn't be fun if I didn't pull a card for myself would it?” said Eddie “Now which card might speak and call for Eddie Lyons?”

He flips the card over and looks at it with a knowing smile and nod.

“Justice. Upright.” he said “Did you expect anything less he said and it's not about me being some righteous hero. It's because I put in the work I've fallen on my face and gotten back up every time I've carried my failures without excuse and never stopped moving. I never lied to myself. After every stumble and every failure and lost opportunity that I experienced I kept going I didn't throw a tantrum I didn't blame anybody else I carried it and I put that blame on Eddie Lyons.”

He pauses again.

“That's what Justice represents.” said Eddie “Truth and accountability. Aiden Reynolds said that I'm wasting my potential and needed to wake up and so I pinned him, and did just that. Now I'm wide awake and ready for Summer Xxxtreme. This time Eddie Lyons doesn't miss. This time Justice wins.”

He looks at the cards on the table before him.

“No blind ambition, continuing to stumble in the dark.”

He flicks The Fool off the table.

“No more stagnation. No more running in place.”

He flicks The Hanged Man off the table.

“I understand how love can motivate you, but be careful it doesn't also blind you.”

He flicks The Lovers off the table.

“I've heard enough desperation and excuses that's not who I am.”

He flicks The Devil off the table.

“Around here you're not the law.”

He flicks The Hierophant off the table.

“I may be having my own issues breaking through but I won't allow myself to become lost in the process. “

He flicks The Chariot off the table.

“You're all going to face Justice at Summer Xxxtreme.” Eddie said “Justice is going to throw each and every one of you overboard, because the cards don't lie, and the cards say it's time for Justice to break through and get what he finally deserves. ”

Eddie stands up and walks off screen as the camera pans across the floor to the cards littered about before rising up and focusing on the Justice card in the middle of the table as everything fades to black.

_________

The house was still at this hour, about three in the morning, as Eddie sat alone at the kitchen table unable to sleep. A lot resting on his mind, his wedding, his upcoming daughter, his career, it did nothing but keep his mind racing and wondering what he really needed to prove, as he sipped his tea.

I've been stuck. There's no doubt about that. I've had to watch others move forward as I continue to be the guy who's always so close but never quite there.

But that doesn't mean I'm done, not by a long shot. I've fallen more times than I care to admit but I continue to get back up and that's what counts and that's what makes the difference.

Of course there's Sabrina my wife to be she believes In Me more than anybody and I need to be the man that deserves that the man who stands through the good times and the hard times she needs to know that she's never alone with me by her side, but I need to be the man that makes her beliefs come true. I owe that to her.

And Jordan. She's going to be here soon. It's crazy that I haven't even met her yet but I love her more than anything.  I just want her to be proud of me and I want her to see her father as someone who's strong and steady. As someone who always shows up no matter what. A man who even in defeat, picks himself up and continues moving forward with no excuses. That's the inspiration and value I want to instill in my daughter.

And there's people in SCW who have written me off, who don't think I have what it takes. That I'll just continue to tread water and I'm not really here to rise.  But I won't stop I won't stop until Eddie Lyons is on the top.


He finishes off his tea and here's the voice of Sabrina calling for him.

“Eddie… come back to bed.” the sleeping voice rang out from down the hall.

He smiled and headed back to the bedroom. Win or lose, the next couple months were going to be a crazy for him. A wedding and a baby that was drawing closer to finally arriving.  A World Championship opportunity on top of that would be icing on the cake and if he could win the World Championship from the winner of J2H and Helluva Bottom Carter as a result?Well, that would be the cherry on top.

_________

The cameras open open on Eddie Lyons standing against the back wooden railing of his home,  as usual he wears a look of determination and has an aura of never wavering confidence about him.

“You know boys, as ridiculous as this match is..” said Eddie "I'm not going to sit there and worry about it. If they want me to throw you overboard to get a World Championship opportunity then that's what I'm going to have to do.”

He pauses for a moment.

“I'm sure the world champion will have a lot to say about how I earned my opportunity when that time comes.” said Eddie “But right now it's all about the six of you. The six that I need to overcome.”

He exhales.

“I have to deal with Justin Smith.” Eddie said “A man stuck repeating the same mistakes. Predictable as ever. Has the hustle but no killer instinct. Everyone he faces says the same things about him but he never seems to learn.”

Eddie's shrugs casually


“Of course neither does Bill Barnhart.” Eddie said “He wants to cling to old ways. He remains overconfident in his outdated tactics.  He thinks that he has some intimidating presence, and maybe once upon a time he may have but he doesn't have it anymore.”

Eddie pauses again.

“Logan Hunter is just too desperate for control.” said Eddie “He's letting rage cloud his judgment and he's unstable under pressure. He's a man easily cracked and he won't be able to stand against somebody that's unbreakable.”

Another short pause.

“Miles Kasey will fight with the heart that he always does.” said Eddie “But he'll continue to be blinded by emotion and rely too much on passion. Unfortunately for you we're chasing the same thing Miles and this time it's going to be my turn to rise.”

He exhales again.

“Liam Davis..” he said "You continue to mask your ego as justice and you continue to want to be the judge and jury of SCW.  Like you have any real authority around here. You're going to find out that your badge doesn't earn you respect in that ring, and it certainly not going to help you win the match.”

He pauses again with another exhale.

“And of course Aiden Reynolds.” said Eddie “A man currently choking on his own frustration and resentment.  Becoming consumed by bitterness. You can say that I'm running in place all you want, but the truth is maybe you've lost your edge. Respectfully Aiden I don't need you to tell me about my career and what I need to do to improve it. Maybe you need to take a look at yourself and figure out why you lost to Logan Hunter. Maybe you need to look back and figure out why I'm going into this match with momentum because I pinned you. I'm going to go on to earn a world championship opportunity this time and you're the one that's going to be running in place and remaining stagnant.”

He pauses for another short moment.

“I hope you all can swim boys.” Eddie said with a grin “Because all of you are going to be taking a dip. But don't worry I hear the waters are rather nice this time of year.”

With a confident odd and a grin on his face everything fades to black.
[/i]
25
The scene opens up with Justin Smith standing on the deck of the Princess Cruise. Before he goes to get a drink, he decides to call his friend and former trainer Casey Williams.

Justin-Hey Casey, looks like I am in a battle royal for a shot for the World Heavyweight championship against Eddie Lyons, Milo Kasey, Liam Davis, Aiden Reynolds, Bill Barnhart and Logan Hunter. What do you think my chances are?

Casey-I think you have as much a chance as they do, as it’s every man for themself.  I would say that you may be a target because you are the weakest link due to your record.”

Justin-I was thinking the same thing.

Casey-Ifigured, and I should expect you to be confident in yourself despite your record.

Justin-Yeah, and I will do my best to win the match, regardless of what needs to be done.

Casey-I’ll send Dying Breed and Hitamashii to train with you.

Justin nods and waves off the cameraman, asking him to leave so Justin can continue his conversation as the scene fades to black.

Early the very next day, Justin is seen at his cabin, on the way to the gym to meet up with Dying Breed and Hitamashii. He arrives at the gym to see Dying Breed members Andrew Garcia and Ivan Darrell already there sparring with each other and Hitamashii.

Andrew-You’re late!

Justin-Sorry, got stuck behind some slow people on the way here.

Ivan-Let’s work on some different techniques.

Justin-Let’s do this!!![/b]

Andrew-At least your skill set can hopefully shine in this match!

Justin-How so?

Ivan-You are known for your power and speed, right?

Justin-Yes.

Andrew-Let us see how we can use that to your advantage in this match, given some of the guys are more agile than you.  Let’s see you do a rack attack.

Justin and Ivan get into position and Justin attempts to give Ivan an ankle lock.

Andrew-That’s good. Now I want to see you try it again.

Justin and Ivan get into position again and Justin’s 2nd attempt of an ankle lock looks much better than the first time.

Andrew-Good job!

Dying Breed and Hitamashii continue working with Justin as the scene fades to black.

Later that night, Justin is seen at the cafeteria for dinner, but turns to the camera with an evil look in his eyes to call out his opponents, first Eddie Lyons.

Justin-”Eddie, you may be the most likely to win this match, due to your reputation but I will do everything in my power to make sure you do not win this battle royal.  There is nothing you can do that will surprise me as I am expecting the unexpected”

Justin then gets a water before turning his attention to Miles Kasey.

Justin-”Miles, I know you’re as talented as Eddie is, and I expect you to go far, but I plan on beating you and doing whatever it takes to win”

Justin then gets a burger and fries. He sits down to eat it and then turns his attention back to call out Liam Davis.

Justin-”Liam, I see you’re still as confident as ever.  Even though you beat me not too long ago, I have a ton of respect for you, as you call it as you see it, but inside that ring, you will be just another victim of my assault and my rise to superstardom. Everyone in this match is just a stepping stone to my success!”

Justin breathes, finishes eating, disposes of his trash and then goes to the deck as he calls out Aiden Reynolds.

Justin-”Aiden, another guy who I can see winning it, and just like I said to Eddie, I will do everything in my power to toss you over and earn this win. I am going to use my power and my speed to dodge any assault and toss people over. You will be just another guy tossed over by the end of the night. I am going to prove to you and the world that I am not as worthless as you think I am when I’m the one standing tall at the end of this.”

Justin arrives at the deck, sits in a chair, takes a sip of his water, and calls out Bill Barnhart.

Justin-”Bill, you seem super confident you won’t be eliminated, but I see you as one of the weakest competitors in this match. Sure, you’ve got some size and power, but you aren’t really that good a wrestler, and you will be one of the first eliminated.  You will be tossed over the ropes and then fall off the deck and into the water because you are clumsy. Nobody wants to hear about your former accolades in other wrestling organizations. Lately, you have been a terrible wrestler, who needs to hang up his boots for good.”

Justin cackles before calling out Logan Hunter.

Justin-”Logan, you can bitch and moan about me being a thorn in your side since your debut, and there’s a reason for it. I need to prove that I am the best in the industry, and I feel that going through you is a step in the right direction in achieving that goal. I agree that you should have held onto that Roulette title longer, but at least you can’t blame me for your losing the title.”

Justin then hums his theme song “Madness” by Liliac as the scene fades to black.
26
Yakuza 1: 家族間の意見の相違 (Family Disagreements)

It was time to suit up.

Aiden stood in his bedroom, slowly sliding the perfectly tailored jacket over the pressed white shirt that he had buttoned up and tucked into a pair of black slacks, with a leather belt clipped at the front. He did the cuff buttons, pulled the jacket around himself, buttoned it at the front, then smoothed it down and took a deep breath, looking into the mirror. He looked good. He knew he looked good. He glanced down at his polished black shoes and lightly tugged the sleeves of his shirt just out from the jacket cuffs.

He looked like one of them now. He didn’t have one of their crests as a pin yet on his lapel, but he felt like one of them. Moving out of the bedroom and into the lounge room and kitchen, he smiled at Kallie. At first, her eyes widened as she took in the sight of her husband in a perfectly tailored black suit. Then she tilted her head and furrowed her brow before taking a deep breath. “Ummmm, what’s the occasion?”

Aiden smiled and shrugged. “I’m gonna go watch Dickie’s back. Gotta make sure he doesn’t get himself killed.”

Kallie frowned. She was clearly upset. Her hands wrapped around a teacup before she took a sip and stood up. A small baby bump was visible under her shirt as she moved around to her husband, grabbed his hands, and shook her head. “Aiden, I really don’t think you should be involved. I don’t think Dickie should be involved—or Finn. This is really stupid and dangerous. But you have a choice. Don’t do this. Don’t hang around those people.”

“Asians?”

“Mobsters, you ding dong!”

Aiden chuckled and leaned down, giving his wife a kiss on the forehead. “Aye, I get it. But I’m not doing anything too crazy, and I’m just there to make sure Dickie doesn’t either. I don’t want to become a member of the Yakuza. I don’t want to get into a life of organized crime. I’m just a fucking professional wrestler.” His voice was soft and sweet. He was trying to be reassuring, to take the tension out of the room. But he could tell that she was still worried.

Kallie swallowed hard and rested her head against Aiden’s chest. She took a deep breath and then took his hand, slowly placing it onto her stomach. Reminding him that he was about to have a second child. Another life he was responsible for. It was a subtle moment. Something that didn’t need to be said between the two. “Just be careful. We need you and love you.”

He nodded slowly. He could hear Dax playing in the next room. He could feel his wife’s warmth and the growing baby bump under his hand.

Knock knock

It broke the moment between them. Frantic knocking. Aiden turned and moved toward the door. The knocking continued as Aiden reached forward, looked through the peephole, and unlocked the bolt. He opened the door, and a smaller Japanese man stepped through. He was dressed in a black suit as well and was panting, taking a few deep breaths as Aiden raised an eyebrow. “You alright, mate?”

Kallie looked concerned. The man, a young foot soldier, breathed heavily. “Aiden-san... we… we need you.”

“What’s up, mate? Is Dickie alright? Has there been a raid on the coffee shop? Did one of our boys get hit? What’s going on?”

The young foot soldier breathed in and out deeply, trying to calm himself down. After a few moments, he looked up at both Kallie and Aiden. “No… but big emergency… we have n—”

“Have no what? Guns? Meds?” Kallie tilted her head to the side, looking at her husband. She was slightly perturbed by the fact that he immediately jumped to guns. But it didn’t stop there, as Aiden didn’t let the young foot soldier speak, instead happily interrupting. “It’s guns, right mate? What do we need? A few Glocks? 9mm? M4? AR-15s?”

“Aiden, what the hell?”

“Udon!”

“I.....-what, mate?”

Aiden blinked a few times, unsure of what he had just heard. Kallie chuckled and shook her head as the foot soldier took a deep breath and repeated himself. “Udon, broth, pickled radish, green onion…”

“Groceries?”

Everyone fell silent. Aiden blinked a few more times, and Kallie looked confused. The foot soldier nodded slowly. “Yes, we need food…” Aiden slowly nodded and took a deep breath.

“Alright… we better go. I know how the boys get when they’re hungry.”

The two left, making their way down the hallway as Kallie smiled. She pulled out her phone, looked at it, then swiped it open and made a phone call. After a few moments, we hear the voice of Dickie Watson on the other end. “Hello?”

Kallie placed her phone on the kitchen bench. “I know what you’re doing. You’re keeping Aiden out of certain jobs to keep him safe, aren’t you?”

“Yes…”

Kallie took a long, deep breath before smiling. “Thank you.”

Multi-Man Overboard

“Mate, what even is this? What am I doing here? Here I am with an opportunity right in front of me to earn a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship, and all I can do is ask why? I’m not gonna look a gift horse in the mouth, but this company and its practice of throwing whatever at the wall until it sticks is starting to destroy everyone’s morale.”

Aiden tuts and rolls his eyes before stretching his neck and clearing his throat.

“I’ll be completely and brutally honest here. I don’t deserve to be in a match with stakes this big. Not at all. I lost a triple threat match to two of the people who are in this thing. So tell me, why am I here? I know why. Because they needed something for all of us to do. Because I’ll be straight with you, Miles doesn’t belong here, Justin Smith doesn’t belong here, Bill Barnhart doesn’t belong here, Logan Hunter does not belong here. In fact, this match should be between Eddie Lyons and Liam Davis.”

“One on one.”

“See, while Liam lost his match against Kevin Carter, the guy put in a ridiculous effort and should be rewarded for it. And Eddie Lyons beat me and Miles. So congrats, Eddie, you beat us only to be put on the exact same level as us in a multi-man match, where the winner gets to face the World Heavyweight Champion. And again, most of us shouldn’t be here. If only there were another annual multi-person match that took place on this cruise ship every single year.”

“Oh wait, there is.”

“The Ultimate X over a pool match. You guys remember that? Sure you do. The females internet championship is being contested in that match this year, and usually there’s a partner match with the men. And it's for the Roulette title Instead of this Overboard Battle Royale, where half of us don’t deserve a World Championship match, we’d be in Ultimate X. But that match isn’t happening this year. I wonder why. It’s almost as if someone who says he doesn’t always get his way… got his way. Like some kind of weird setup where he gets to do whatever the fuck he wants.”

“Oh well… fuck us and fuck this company. I guess we’ll just sit here and change traditions we do every year to please one person. Awesome.”


Aiden scoffs and steps forward, his steely blue eyes on fire.

“But hey, just because I don’t agree with all of us being in this match doesn’t mean I’m not going to try and win it. I’m going to toss Eddie Lyons out. Even though I respect him, and even though he literally just won a triple threat match against me and Miles, he still isn’t the type of person who’s going to be able to win the World Championship. Because he chokes. He is a choke artist. As good as Eddie Lyons believes himself to be, and as great as his family is, he can never break through that glass ceiling above his head. He just keeps smashing his head on it every time he tries to become something better than he is.”

“It’s honestly getting maddening, Eddie. It’s maddening from my standpoint because I like you. I think you are a great professional wrestler, and I have all the respect in the world for your abilities. But you have this fear of failure in you. Almost like you don’t want to take that next step because you’re terrified of it. And that’s honestly what I think it is, you are terrified of success. You’re terrified of being the best because you know the kind of pressure that’s going to come with it. And that’s a problem. It’s a problem because most people step up and want to be the best. And you? You don’t have the balls to do it.”

“Other members of your family have the guts to do what’s needed, but they don’t have the talent. That’s Victoria’s problem. She has the guts to do everything she needs to become a World Champion, but she doesn’t have the skills that you do. If we took your skills and her guts, we’d have someone who would be a multi-time World Champion by now, instead of two failures.”


He rolls his eyes and continues.

“And speaking of failures… hey Miles, how’s it goin’, buddy? Man, this is great, isn’t it? We’re both getting a shot at becoming the number one contender for a World Championship! All we have to do is throw everyone else overboard. Sounds great, right? But here’s the issue, you definitely shouldn’t be in this match. You are screwed if you somehow fluke your way into a win. If Carter wins, then you and Carter have to go head-to-head, and that’s going to be a waste of a match. Neither of you are really going to want to beat the other, and it’s going to be boring. The rest of us are going to have a nice little nap while you’re in the ring, dancing around and doing whatever it is you do.”

“And if J2H beats Carter?”

“Well, shit. I don’t think anyone’s ready for that kind of massacre. Carter is better than you and he’s going to have trouble with a guy like J2H. You? You don’t have what it takes to beat him. Because you let people’s reputations intimidate you to the point where you become a shrinking violet in a world of war. I might not end up being able to beat J2H, but I’ll put on a much better show than you will,  and I’ll do everything I can to beat him, instead of turning into a fucking coward like you will. So I’m gonna toss your arse overboard because you do not deserve this championship match and you don’t deserve this opportunity.”


Aiden spits his words like venom as his hands ball into fists.

“Man, I can talk shit about Eddie and Miles, but at least they somewhat understand what they’re up against. They also do everything they can to destroy the preconceptions that they’re not good enough. But a guy like Justin Smith? This is ridiculous. Justin, I don’t want to be a dick, but I’m going to be. The fact that you’re in this match makes the match mean less. You have no chance of winning. You are nothing on the SCW spectrum. You shouldn’t be involved in any type of championship opportunity,  let alone for the World Championship,  and I despise everything about you and everything you think you are.”

“You are a waste. A complete waste of space. You’re taking up a position on the card let alone in a match like this, and it’s fucking disgusting. You shouldn’t be here. And I’m going to try and throw you out first because you don’t belong in this match. And if I keep seeing you there, it’s going to go from me trying to throw you off the boat to me trying to cave your goddamn head in. Because you stand for everything I hate about this business. You are a waste of time, a waste of space, a waste of a human being — and you shouldn’t even be in this business anymore, you piece of shit.”

“And I wholeheartedly mean that. And I also mean it when I say these things about you, Bill.”

“What else can I say about a guy like you, Bill Barnhart? Week after week, month after month, year after year, you stick around SCW like a bad smell, while never actually accomplishing anything. You, your wife, and your friend Felix are three of the worst human beings and worst professional wrestlers I’ve ever seen in my life. If you trip over something and fluke a win, that’s one win too many. You will never become anything more than that in this business. A fluke. And you and Justin are the types of people we need to run out of this business, instead of letting you come in and waste all of our fucking time.”


He stands up, slamming his fist on the table, clearly angry. Yes, he’s angry. Something you really don’t see.

“Kind of like you, Logan. You little shit-talking lord. I’m going to be very, very honest here. You should not have beaten me. You should not have been the Roulette Champion. And if you hadn’t somehow beaten me, you wouldn’t have been in the position you were in, and that stupid clown wouldn’t be holding the Roulette Championship.”

“By the way, kind of weird how you got an immediate rematch when you didn’t defend the title at all, while I held it for months, defended it, and haven’t had a rematch. I’m sure they’re going to use me being in this match as justification for not giving me one. But we all know the real reason. There’s someone who has a problem with that — and he’s a giant pussy.”

“But hey, that’s fine, right Logan? You get handed stuff. I get shafted. Exactly what I’ve been talking about for the last few weeks. But it seems to be falling on deaf ears. So I’m going to make an example out of you. You don’t deserve this position. You didn’t deserve to be Roulette Champion. All you deserve is to be destroyed on a grand stage so people can see what kind of pathetic piece of trash you are.”

“And of course, I want to finish on a more positive note.”

“Liam Davis…”

“Mate, you almost beat Kevin Carter. You did. I don’t think anyone can disagree with that. You almost beat one of the longest-reigning champions in this company, and you did it by putting the pedal to the metal and going at him. And now, because of that amazing effort, you’re in this Overboard Battle Royale. And I meant what I said. It should come down to you and Eddie. Even though Eddie seems to always fail, you’re an unknown quantity. You could put on a show and go after the World Championship.”

“But here’s the problem. While I can freely admit my path to this match hasn’t been the smoothest, and I don’t fully deserve it — I’m still going to take this opportunity with both hands and do whatever I can to win. Because deep down, I know I can be World Champion. I just need an opportunity. And if I have to get that opportunity by throwing you and everyone else off the ship… then I’m gonna do it.”

“And it is on every single one of you… to stop me.”
27
Supercard Roleplays / “About Damn Time!”
« Last post by Cassie Wolfe on July 11, 2025, 10:44:29 PM »
It was a match two months in the making but Cassie was finally set to resolve her issues with Seleana Zdunich at Summer XXXTreme, it started with a random match between Cassie and Mercedes Vargas during the Viking Era Tour which had Seleana as a guest ref as the match was taking place in Seleana’s home country of Sweden, a match that Seleana inadvertently cost Cassie and things escalated from there.

However the annual summer spectacular was also serving as two important milestones for Cassie: not only was it the one year anniversary of her SCW debut but it was her first match as a twenty two year old woman as she was celebrating her birthday the week before! Can Cassie win and close out this chapter of her career?

Cassie’s home, Las Vegas, Nevada
Friday the 11th of July 2025, 09:00am

Oh what a difference four years make!

This is my first Summer XXXTreme as a competing Bombshell, that goes without saying since I signed my contract with SCW right before last year’s show, but I’ve been a part of this since 2022, back when I was an eighteen year old trainee at the PTA Gym.

Never heard of the PTA Gym? There’s a reason, it was originally run by “Prime Time” Matthew Kennedy, a retired British wrestler who was one of the first Roulette Champions back in SCW’s early days and for a time? He served as Krustal’s manager which was how she entered my life, at the time? She was at the peak of her Roulette Title Reign but Matthew was trying to turn her into something she wasn’t.

That also happened to coincide with her latest challenger being Keira Fisher having turned away Char Kwan at that year’s High Stakes, I was naive at the time and didn’t realize that Matthew, despite having a damn wrestling prodigy in his gym, was less interested in my development as a wrestler and more interested in using me as a tool against Krystal, to make a long story short? Matthew found himself forced to sell his gym to Team Hero who rebranded it as Hero Academy, I went on to be the first graduate from the school at nineteen, having celebrated my birthday the day after the 2022  event ended.

The 2023 event passed without much incident but last year’s show? As I said, that was when I signed my SCW Contract, Krystal had taken time off due to injury and was considering not renewing her contract when it came up, they had a void on the roster and well, I saw an opportunity! Has my run been perfect? Not exactly, but I’ve had a hell of a time along the way.

And that brings us to today, because my match will be my first match as a twenty two year old woman! That’s right, it’s my birthday!

”Mom said she’d be here with my presents at 9:00am.” I muttered to myself as I checked the time on my phone, I was going to tweet about it later  ”Meaning she’ll be here any moment now if traffic cooperated with her.”

Moments later there was a knock at the door and I got up to answer, Sandie, my Golden Retriever who had been a Christmas present back in 2022, had of course beaten me to the door and when I answered? My mom was on the other side. “Happy birthday Cassie!” My mom greeted me before we shared a hug and I let her into the house, Sandie followed closely behind us. “My, my, you’ve grown so much!”

”Pretty sure my height peaked at 5ft 3 mom.” I responded as I shook my head and Sandie sat down next to me. ”But yeah, after how crazy the past year has been? I’m glad for the reset, and right before my first year anniversary as an SCW Bombshell.”

“Time flies Cassie, that’s all I can say.” My mom responded before she started getting the presents out, it was a Nintendo Switch 2 with Donkey Kong Bananza, Pokemon Legends: Z-A and some money, normally they’d be wrapped but mom had accidentally spilled the beans on me getting a Switch 2 and games a couple of weeks ago so she cut to the chase. “Your father and I will be in attendance on the cruise too.”

”Yeah, I can’t wait, especially with the belated birthday bash that I’ve arranged with the bosses.” I added with a grin as I checked out the switch, planning to get it set up a bit later. ”Do you know if Krystal will be attending?”

My mom frowned and with good reason, Krystal had become disillusioned with wrestling since leaving SCW last year, she still lived in Vegas with her wife Makayla and their daughters but she hasn’t even attended a wrestling show since then, not even Blaze of Glory when I was in the Elimination Chamber challenging for the World Bombshell Title got her to come out. “I haven’t spoken to Charlotte in some time.” My mom responded as I nodded, Charlotte was Krystal’s birth name but for a multitude of reasons that really fucked up? She legally changed her name to Krystal before she graduated from the Go Gym and only those she was close to called her Charlotte, me and my mom included. “You know hiow she feels about how her SCW career ended.”

”Yeah, I know, I figured I’d ask.” I sighed as ran a hand through my hair. ”She sent me some money earlier and Makayla did drop off some presents but aside from that and a Happy Birthday message over WhatsApp? Not much.”

“We can only hope that she comes around.” My mom nodded sympathetically and I nodded in response. “Now, how about I fix you some breakfast?”

”Sounds great.” I responded before my mom went into my kitchen to start making me breakfast.

Josh’s Gym, Las Vegas, Nevada
Friday the 11th of July 2025, 16:00pm

It’s been a few hours since mom’s visit but as great as my birthday has been? I do need to get my training done.

I know me and Harp use both Josh’s gym and Hero Academy interchangeably but this week? Harper’s in a title match so she’s been getting her reps at the better equipped and funded Hero Academy for most of the week, I focussed on getting my reps done in a more intimate setting and Josh has happy to accommodate me.

We still planned to meet up for a meal out later at one of Las Vegas’s best restaurants to celebrate my birthday but that wasn’t for a few hours yet, until then? We had training to do and while my match wasn’t as important as Harper’s? The training still mattered.

”Hey Josh.” I greeted my manager as I entered the gym and he greeted me warmly. ”Ready to make me work on my birthday?”

“Always.” Josh chuckled and I went into the changing room to get changed out of my day clothes and into my wrestling gear, once I came out of the changing room I wasted little time in getting inside the ring. “How does it feel being twenty two?”

”Same as I felt after I turned twenty one last year, only my age features the same number twice.” I responded with a grin as I started to work out. ”Seriously, I think I answered that question about five times today since I got my presents from Makayla, Krystal and my mom.”

“Yeah, well, just wait until you get to my age.” Josh chuckled as I started running the ropes. “The reservation was confirmed earlier by the way.”

”Good, I can’t wait to splurge on my birthday.” I responded with a grin as I leaned against the ring ropes. ”I’ve had birthday money from both mom and Krystal so it’s not like I’m gonna run short before I get my next SCW Paycheque.”

“That always helps.” Josh nodded in agreement as I continued to work out. “Of course, you’re lucky to still get those paycheques after the comment you made to Seleana that started this whole mess.”

”You’re really gonna bring that shit up on my birthday?!” I protested as I stopped my workout to turn to my manager. ”Yes, it was fucked up of me to accuse a mother of beating her kids without proof but you know the shit I was going through during the Viking Era Tour!”

“Mental health or not, in a regular job that would’ve at least violated five HR Rules.” Joshua responded as he leaned against the apron and I frowned. “Not to mention the legal ramifications.”

”I mean, that incident happened in Denmark and I’m pretty sure neither of us are qualified to speak on Danish law.” I responded as I shook my head and Josh nodded as he realized that I had a point. ”Besides, I’ve spent the past few months on what basically amounts to an apology tour, does that count for nothing?”

“No.” Josh responded as he shook his head and I let out a deep breath. “But reminding you of your mistakes keeps you humble Cass.”

”Just saying, there’s easier ways to keep me humble than reminding me of what’s going to stand out as the sore thumb of my first full year as an SCW Bombshell.” I responded dryly as I folded my arms. ”Not to mention a possible candidate for Holy Shit/WTF Moment of the Year provided it doesn’t get overshadowed in the Year End Awards by everything Logan Hunter has done since his debut.”

“Also very true.” Josh nodded in agreement before shaking his head. “But for now? Get back to your training, you can film your first promo for the match afterwards.”

”Sounds good to me.” I responded before I picked up where I left off.

Josh’s Gym, Las Vegas, Nevada
Friday the 11th of July 2025, 17:15pm

*promo time*

As I got ready to cut my promo for this long overdue match? I had one thing on my mind.

”You know, for a grudge that essentially spawned from one, admittedly fucked up, comment that I made in a completely different time zone a few months ago? It’s taking for fucking ever to get to this point, hasn’t it Seleana?” I asked as I folded my arms. ”Seriously, we were supposed to have this match at Into the Void, got added to the Queen for a Day Match instead, then we had that tag match with Harper and Diamond and finally? After three months of waiting? We’re opening Summer XXXTreme.”

Yep.

”And to think, neither of us really got a concrete answer for why that match up got bumped to annual cruise but here we are!” I stated as I shook my head. ”And honestly? I think it’s about damn time we put this whole incident behind us, they’re billing it as a grudge but is it really? I’ve moved on, you’ve seemed to have moved on, what exactly is the grudge?”

I can think of one thing.

”Oh right, the fact that the bosses used Mercedes’ fluke win over me to give her a shot at Bella and the Bombshell Internet Championship at Into the Void which led to Mercedes winning her first singles title in years, I swear Seleana you’re like the butterfly effect of wrestling!” I commented as I shook my head. ”You do a terrible job of officiating a match and that leads to the poster girl for “washed up past her prime Bombshell” getting a fire lit under her ass and is suddenly having a career renascence! What next?!”

I dread to think.

”Don’t answer that, I don’t think the world would survive someone like Bea Barnhart ending Victoria Lyons’s reign!” I added as I shook my head. ”But in all seriousness? Your bad officiating possibly cost me a Bombshell Internet Title Match and now Mercedes is parading that thing around like her shit don’t stink! Will I set my sights on her after I beat you Seleana? Maybe, I don’t make a habit of airing my plans out during promos unless they involve the match, speaking off?”

It's that simple.

”Summer XXXTreme will be my first year anniversary of signing my first contract with SCW and this match will be my first as a twenty two year old, yeah, today’s my birthday and I’m celebrating by planning out how I’m going to kick your ass!” I added s I flipped some hair over my shoulder. ”Wrestling is weird like that, huh Seleana? I mean the comments I made that started this mess would’ve gotten me a lot worse than a broken nose in any other setting but here we are!”

And with that I decided to wrap things up.

”And here I am, ready to throw down with you on the cruise Seleana! And once I beat you? Maybe, just maybe, we can put this shit to rest.” I added as I folded my arms. ”Because god knows I don’t want this shit spread out to Violent Conduct! To all my fans? In a world of fake queens and long overdue grudge matches? Be yourselves and be a Rebel Princess! And to you Seleana? Get ready because I’m hungry like the wolfe!”

I turned off my camera as the scene fades.
28

FLASHBACK -- September 8th, 2015

Slowly the car was coming to a stop there in the driveway. Jayden sat there looking miserable and cranky. A trademark for the teenager. Yet today there was a bit of a reason for it. That reason went along with the ice-pack that he held against his cheek. The bloody tissue paper hanging out his nose and the slight bruise that was starting to form over his eye. As soon as the car came to a complete stop. Carmen looked up into the rearview mirror at her son.

CARMEN: You know we’re going to have to talk to your father about this.

JAYDEN: No.

CARMEN: Yes, we do. He’s going to question why you are home on a school day in the middle of the day.

JAYDEN: Then you tell him!

CARMEN: I understand you are frustrated right now. Lots happened today. Your body hurts. Your ego and pride hurts. I know, baby. I really do, but this isn’t a conversation I can really have for you. It’s a conversation you need to have with him. It’s only going to make you feel better in the end.

JAYDEN: How is it going to make me feel better? How is telling him that I got beat up and that I lost a fight is going to make me feel better?!

CARMEN: I don’t know for certain, but these are the types of talks father and son have to have. Just trust me on this one will you?

JAYDEN: No, I am not trusting you on this. No, I am not talking to him. I just want to go to my room!

He sat there glaring back up at his mother in the front seat. Her expression changed right away. Her arms folded across her chest. Instantly making the teenager regret his choice of words.

CARMEN: Jayden David! ¡No me hagas repetirlo!

JAYDEN: Fiiiiine!

His Spanish was far more advanced than his peers at school. Thanks to his step mother constantly speaking it around him. He understood enough of it to know she wasn’t playing any games with him. In a frustrated state he opened the back door and stepped up. Keeping the ice-pack against his cheek. Yanking his backpack out with him and then slamming the door shut. Everything about him ooze his father’s attitude. Something Carmen had to be telling herself as she followed him inside.

Jayden already knew where his father was on a day off from the road. Out in the gym. He carried himself through the living room. To a set up of steps that lead to the basement. Gripping the hand rail as he began to walk down those steps. Very reluctantly, if it wasn’t for the fear of God that Carmen had put into him with how she and his father both handled discipline. Along with her being right behind him. Jayden wouldn’t have been walking down the steps. Soon enough though he hit the bottom of them.

Sure enough there stood his father. The wrestling icon and legend in the making. Lying under the bench press. Lifting weight that Jayden couldn’t even phantom trying to do himself. And he was turning into an athlete at his age already. The heavy metal music that was blaring throughout the gym came to a stop. Thanks to Carmen’s hand. It led to Michael slamming the bar back down in place and sitting up. Turning around to see his wife and his son.

MICHAEL: What is going on?

CARMEN: We need to have a conversation, please.

MICHAEL: What the hell happened to him? Why is his nose bloody and his face swollen?!

CARMEN: That’s what we need to talk about. Go on Jayden. Explain to your father what happened.

Talk about feeling pressure and a slight intimidation factor. Not that his father aimed to be intimidating to him or any of his siblings. It was just his presence. It was how he carried himself. He was rough around the edges. Expected them all to tow a line. Jayden slowly lowered the ice-pack away from his face. His cheek really had swelled up. That bruise was able to be seen more clearly. His father grew a bit frustrated with the sight and the fact nothing was coming from his son.

MICHAEL: I’m waiting, son!

JAYDEN: I got in a fight at school today.

MICHAEL: Got into a flight? Because everything I am seeing right now looks like it was one sided and you got your ass beat. What was the fight over?

JAYDEN: There was this girl. I was thinking about asking to go to the school dance next weekend. Some other kid didn’t like it and got in my face.

MICHAEL: Did a whole hell of a lot more than get in your face. You better start spilling all the details Jayden!

JAYDEN: He said he already asked her or something. I said so? Then he punched me... he punched me a few times.

MICHAEL: And did you punch him back?

JAYDEN: No.

MICHAEL: Did you do anything at all?

JAYDEN: No, it all happened so fast. Before I knew it I was on the ground and he was kicking me in the head. That’s where he busted my nose.

MICHAEL: Jesus Christ, Jayden.

His father’s frustration boiled over. This is exactly why Jayden didn’t want to have this talk. He already knew in the back of his head how this was going to turn out. Jayden just knew his father was going to be irritated and more importantly knew he would be disappointed. The teenager watched his father stand up from where he was sitting on the bench press.

MICHAEL: Why didn’t you do anything back?

JAYDEN: I didn’t want to get in any kind of trouble.

MICHAEL: Lord. Where did I go wrong? Where did I go wrong? I didn’t know I was raising my oldest son to be such a fucking pussy.

CARMEN: Michael!

MICHAEL: Carmen. Please stay out of this right now. Let me handle my son.

CARMEN: Our son! Importantly my precious baby boy.

MICHAEL: See. That’s it right there. You’re part of the prob---

CARMEN: I’d watch what you’re about to say right now!

A nasty glare overcame the woman. Her Spanish attitude really taking over as she folded her arms across her chest. Michael’s silence consumed him for the time being.

CARMEN: That’s what I thought. Don’t you think about ever disrespecting me or our son like that ever again. The boy already feels bad enough about what happened. You don’t need to make him feel any worse about the situation. And if you call him out his name again. You’re not going to like the heap I leave you lying in!

Between the two of them there was a very intense glare. They did share similar disciplinary outlooks, but there were times. He took things too far. Just like there were times where she had a soft spot for Jayden. This was one of those times for the both of them. All the tension was high. Making the teengager feel like he had to say something to try and ease it.

JAYDEN: Dad. I’m sorry.

His son’s words brought Michael’s attention back over to the young man.

JAYDEN: I should have done something. You’re right. I just didn’t know what to do.

MICHAEL: That’s not good Jayden. That’s not good at all.

JAYDEN: I know...

MICHAEL: Do you? Do you really know? Because at thirteen years old. I thought I have taught you enough to let you know it’s alright to defend yourself. I thought I have taught you enough that in a situation like this coming up. You would know what to do and how to defend yourself. I thought that I had taught you how cruel the world is. People are going to push you around. People are going to bully you. If they can, they’re going to chew you up, and spit you out with no remorse.

JAYDEN: You have dad. You have. I know the world is cruel. I know people are hateful. It just caught me off guard. I didn’t see it coming.

MICHAEL: And that’s how it is always going to be. You’re never going to see something like this coming. Bullies thrive off the insecurities of others. They’re always going to want to have that upperhand when it comes to the element of surprise. Clearly, I am at fault here. I didn’t make sure you were prepared. I didn’t make sure you were ready for a situation like this. I have to do better.

The pit of Jayden’s gut was turning. It was making him feel sick to his stomach. The hint of disappointment in his father’s voice made him feel the worst. Hearing his father blame him over something that was technically his own fault. It made the teenager regret everything that had taken place today. Yet he didn’t get a chance to dwell on it long. His father spoke up and commanded his attention once again.

MICHAEL: I am going to make sure something like this never happens again. Go upstairs and get yourself cleaned up. Make it quick. To meet me back down here.

CARMEN: Woah. Let’s calm down for a second. Not get ourselves all worked up over the situation. It was a small fight. He knows now it’s okay to defend himself.

MICHAEL: It’s one thing to know it’s okay to defend yourself. It’s another situation to know how to defend yourself. I am going to make sure he knows how. This will never be a thing.

JAYDEN: I’ll just avoid conflict next time.

MICHAEL: No. You’re not a coward. You are going to learn how to fight. One way or another. Don’t care what hoops I gotta jump through or what classes I have to sign you up for.

JAYDEN: Dad...

MICHAEL: I said go get yourself cleaned up. I won’t repeat myself again!

His voice was stern. Jayden knew right then and there he meant business. The teenager turned himself around to make his way out of the gym. As he could hear his father and mother starting to go back and forth over the way his father was choosing to go about things. Up the stairs Jayden went. He was concerned. He was nervous. And there was even a little bit of fear mixed in as well. He didn’t know what his father had planned. Yet it sounded like he was going to have no other option when it came to finding out.




PRESENT DAY -- July 11th, 2025

It was often that Jayden found himself in Chicago these days. Home was in New Orleans, but today he was in the city to handle some business. A day that was going to require him to be very busy. Yet with being an athlete. He had to find time to squeeze in a work out. Especially with that fight with Vincent coming up. At that moment Jayden was pulling the doors open to a gym that he hadn’t been to in a long time. Wasn’t just your usual gym though. It was a gym dedicated to mixed martial arts.

All types of classes were taught inside this gym. From boxing to jiu jitsu. Lots of his teenage years were spent in some of those classes. Helping build himself as a man and as a fighter. Jayden walked through the gym until he found a small corner where the speed bag was. Taking the backpack off his shoulder and tossing it down against the wall. Reaching into the bag for a brief moment to pull out some tape. Wrapping up his fists rather quickly. Nothing professional, just enough to protect them a bit.

Let’s see if I can still do this.

As he spoke out loud to himself. Jayden tossed the tape down on top of his bag and found himself turning towards the speed bag. Starting with a left jab against it. Causing it to swing back some. Jayden brought his right fist forward for another quick jab against it. In some aspects this type of training was like riding a bicycle. It came back to you once you got back into the swing of things. He had the fundamentals down, but it was clear he was not as quick as he once was. Not as clean and as focused as he once was. Suddenly he heard a voice from behind him.

I believe I taught you better than that, junior.

Jayden’s fists came to a stop. Turning his head around to see an older man starting to approach him. He couldn’t have been that much older than his father. The expression on the man’s face clicked in his brain. Jayden instantly felt like he knew who this man was.

JAYDEN: Lue? Is that you?

His eyebrow arched up a little more. That older man finally approached him. Extending his hand in Jayden’s direction. He gladly accepted it.

LUE: Who else do you think it would be, kid?

JAYDEN: It’s been a long time! Last I heard you didn’t work here anymore.

LUE: I don’t. My days of training are well behind me, but my grandson has taken an interest in karate. Took him to the best place in the city to learn from. Years and years here. Everyone knows what they’re doing. Well, almost everyone.

JAYDEN: I imagine a lot has changed. Even if it was only seven or eight years ago you were in here training me.

LUE: Training that clearly went in one ear and out the other.

The older man found himself shaking his head a little bit.

LUE: I know I taught you better than that. You don’t start cold and go right into hitting the bag. You need to get yourself warmed up first. Lots and lots of stretching. Making sure all those muscles are ready for what you are about to put them through. Then your cardio. Jogging. Jump Rope. All of those things and then you make your way over to the bag.

JAYDEN: Trust me Lue. I haven’t forgotten a lot of those fundamentals you taught me when I was young. It’s just one of those things. I am a little pressed for time. Cutting a couple corners today just to make sure I get some type of workout in.

LUE: Ahhh! And what did I tell you back then? Hmmm? About cutting corners.

JAYDEN: That there are no shortcuts to becoming a great fighter. No one cuts corners and ends up being talked about as an all time great.

LUE: Exactly! You are not a lazy man Jayden. You and I both know that cutting corners is one hundred percent going to make you lazy. All those years you had all this potential. I don’t want to see you wasting it now that you're older.

For a moment Jayden just looked at that older man. He had respect because of everything that was taught to him. Yet some of these old heads just didn’t know where to back off. That was the frustrating part for the Brat. Despite feeling that frustration. Jayden kept himself in check.

LUE: What did you end up making of yourself anyway? All those years ago when your father signed you up for some of those classes. He sounded very convinced this was going to help you find some kind of killer instinct buried inside you. Ever find it?

JAYDEN: I don’t really remember everything from back then, but I didn’t go on to be a boxer or anything like that. I do use what you taught me as a way to train, spar, and once in a blue moon. I introduce it into my arsenal of moves with my wrestling career.

LUE: Like the fake shit your old man did?

JAYDEN: Hey, hey. Let’s watch that shit. My father made a living for my entire family off of it. And now I am doing the same for my own family.

LUE: I am sorry Jayden. I am. It’s just something that I do not understand. Didn’t get it then. Don’t get it now, but if it pays the bills. I’ve got no business in judging.

Holding his hands up in the air for a moment. Showing his ability to be as non judgemental as possible. Although he should count his lucky stars he called wrestling ‘fake’ to the right person. There were a lot of people that still didn’t take kindly to that comment.

JAYDEN: But, all of that training is going to pay off in a few weeks. Next match I have isn’t classified as a match. It’s being classified as a fight. Every submission hold I was ever taught is legal. My fists are legal. Takedowns are legal. It’s going to be fun to finally test myself in a setting like that.

LUE: Interesting. Sounds like a shoot fight. Any styles involved. This person you’re facing? Do they have any kind of background? Anything that you should be taking into consideration?

JAYDEN: Any legitimate flight background? No, I don’t think so. For someone that talks as much shit as he does. Hides behind his sister and is only puffing out his chest when he sneak attacks someone. I’d say that I am most likely right. Only background he has is being a pussy.

LUE: You can’t call yourself a man if you’re willing to hide behind a female or if you’re willing to constantly hit another man from behind.

JAYDEN: My point exactly.

LUE: But if this is what you are saying it is. If this is truly about a fight. That has nothing to do with being labeled a man. He very well could be dangerous in hand to hand combat.

For that brief second it made Jayden think and take something into consideration that he hadn’t done prior to this moment.

LUE: You’re an adult now Jayden. I am not your trainer. You’ve got no reason to listen to me after all this years. I will however say. The fight game has changed. It has changed a lot. Lot more cowards have entered the fight game. They are known for suckering people in. Something that you might need to keep stored up top. Don’t let him have a mental edge over you.

The older man reached out and proceeded to give Jayden a small pat on his shoulder.

LUE: It was nice catching up with you, junior. Wish you the best of luck out there.

JAYDEN: Thanks Lue. Thanks a lot.

He stood there watching the older man walk away. Within a few seconds of the man disappearing out of eyesview. Jayden instantly turned towards the very bag he had brought into the gym. Unzipping it wide enough to pull out his set of jump ropes. Holding the ends out with both hands as he took them behind them and stepped forward. Speaking out loud to himself once again.

You’re not going to catch me lacking, Vincent!

Following his words Jayden swung the jump rope ahead of him and found himself starting to leap over it. Within seconds he found himself in a very fast pace setting. Swinging the rope quickly and clearing it with every jump. Practically bouncing off the tips of his toes with each jump he made. Until this moment Jayden just thought Vincent was blowing smoke. Simply thought the man was biting off more than he could chew. Then reality hit. The name of the game had changed in a big way. This wasn’t a wrestling match. This was a fight. A legitimate fight. He had to be at his best, because if he lost in a setting like this. He would never be able to live it down!




With the scene opening up. The back of Jayden’s head could be seen as he was sprinting towards a gate that was clearly designed to keep people out. He leaped onto the gate and then used his hands to pull himself up to the top of it. Swinging his legs right over it and then dropping down. A thud could be heard before the cameras could get close enough to where he had leaped. Seeing him standing there on the dirt floor. From behind the cameras a voice could be heard.

Jayden! This is not smart. This is not smart at all. Get the hell out of there!

Those words were falling on deaf ears. Jayden shook his head a brief moment before looking back at the camera and the cameraman.

Keep it rolling. Whatever happens, just keep it rolling.

He turned himself around and started to walk further across that dirt ground. The cameraman zoomed in a little bit. Revealing that Jayden was face to face with what looked like a man built cave. From inside that cave a very fierce roar could be heard. Almost as soon as that roar was heard. Slowly and menacingly a pack of lions could be seen coming out from the depths of it. Their eyes locked on the man threatening their habitat. Jayden remained still and calm. As the camera's audio picked up on what he was saying.

Stepping into the Lions Den. That is a phrase that has been heard for years. It’s meant to describe how dangerous a situation can be. And how fitting it is, because there is nothing more dangerous than stepping into a Lion’s Den. It is their home. It is their habitat. It is where they are meant to feel safe and security. It is where they are meant to feel the most at peace. Anything and anyone that enters it. Deserves exactly what’s coming to them. They knew the risks!

Although his voice was in a calm manner. Not too excited. Not angry or anything like that. The fact that his presence was even in the den and then he made noise. That was a mistake. That pack started to further adventure outside of the den. The alpha male sat directly in front of Jayden just a few feet away. Snarling at him. All while the other four lions decided to venture out around him. Slowly starting to circle around him. He remained calm still.

Vincent. It wasn’t that long ago I decided to give you all the ability in the world to call the shots. I told you. You could name the match. You could name the stipulations. You could choose whatever environment we found ourselves in. all because you wanted a fight with me. And now I can admit that maybe. Just maybe I was a little over confident. Maybe just maybe I was a little cocky. Because you’ve made the choice. It’s you and I at Summer XXXtreme. No ropes. No wrestling. No fancy moves. It’s all about throwings hands, being skilled enough to take down an opponent, and using whatever submission game you might have in your arsenal.

You have undoubtedly made sure that the winner is truly going to be just that. As there is no other way to win unless it’s by a vicious Knockout. You choke the life out of your opponent to the point they either tap out or pass out. Or if somehow we are both just such strong individuals we take the best shot the other has. That the referee has to step in to make a decision on who the winner shall be. Very smart of you. Something I didn’t exactly expect when you said this was going to be a fight. Yet that’s not the most dangerous part. No, you took it a step further. By making this a Lyons Den fight. Something that gives you the advantage. As the ropeless ring will be surrounded by men just waiting to bounce on us.


About that time one of those female lions moved in a little closer. For no other reason than to get a sniff of the intruder in their den. Staying perfectly still knowing what would become of him. If he had any sudden movements. Or even made a second. Waiting for that lion to back herself off. As soon as she did, he felt comfortable enough to speak.

Or should I actually say. Those men are going to be waiting to bounce on me. After all, I gave you free reign. It wouldn’t surprise me in the least bit. If you have hand chosen every one of those lumberjacks. Might be members of your family. Might be men that hate me just as much if not more than you hate me. No matter what the situation is. You have made sure that the cards are in your favor. You have made sure that I am at a disadvantage. You have made sure that I am going to be walking into the most dangerous situation I have ever been in before. As much as I don’t like you. I do have to tip my hat to you. Because like I said before. When this was all said up. I didn’t think you had two brain cells to rub together. Not well enough that would allow you to create an outcome like that.

Now while I do give you props for making sure that my back was going to be against the wall in the most dangerous setting of all. That still doesn't change one thing. It does not change what kind of fighter I intend to be or what kind of fighter that I know that I am. You see Vincent. When I was about thirteen years old. I found out what it was like to be in a fight. This kid beat the hell out of me. Left me with a black eye. Busted my nose wide open. I bled all over the place. He made sure my face swelled up by kicking me in it when I hit the floor. Worst of all, I didn't know how to defend myself. I took that asskicking and then when I got home. My father was very disappointed in me. To the point I felt like I let him down in a way he would never forgive me for. But he made it right.

He made it right by forcing me into taking boxing classes. He forced me into taking kickboxing classes. He forced me into taking jiu jitsu classes. I was already playing basketball and football. Well on my way to being an athlete. Then he made sure I became a fighter. I can admit at first, it wasn’t a passion of mine. It wasn’t something I wanted to do. In fact I didn’t ever want to fight after that situation. Intended to avoid all conflict going forward, but I am thankful my father put me in those classes. Because not only did it teach me how to fight. It taught me self discipline which is something I desperately needed as a young teenager. I have come a long way in ten years. This is why I questioned if you truly wanted a fight with me. My hands are registered. My arenal is lethal. I’m a legitimate fighter. Are you?!


His eyebrow arched in a questioning manner. Yet he was very quickly forced to to come to grips with the reality before him. That very moment that alpha lion let out a roar. It seemed like it was a signal. Those other four lions. Stopped in their tracks. Sitting down and glaring at Jayden with that same hungry frightening glare in their eyes as the Alpha Lion.

But I guess when you are making me walk straight into the Lyons Den to face you. It doesn’t really matter if you can really fight or not. You got all you need with the danger being on your side. With having every upper hand going into this match. Yet, there is one thing that you are so blindly forgetting. Having this upperhand. Having this dangerous aspect of things. Forcing me to face you in the heart of your Lyons Den. It only has the appeal that it does and gives you the leverage you desire.

If I am willing to fear you. If I show you fear. If I show you how scared I am. If you see a state of panic in my eyes. Then you win. You are going to come out on top with this fight. You are going to get to tell all of Sin City Wrestling. You are the King of the Jungle. Something you have craved since you walked in this place.. but sadly for you. That is not the case Vincent. I am not scared of you. There is no reason for me to show any kind of panic. You are simply not a man worth fearing. Never have been. Never will be.


Jayden watched as the Alpha Lion stood up out of his sitting position. Turning his back to him and starting to walk back inside that den. Within seconds the rest of the pride started to follow behind them. Waiting until they had disappeared. Jayden made a dash towards that french. Clearing it in a single bound. Landing right on his feet in front of those cameras. A smirk spread from ear to ear. That risk had paid off. Further proving the point he was making.

Vincent. You have been able to prey on the fear of others. It has allowed you to create this belief that you are invincible and that you are able to rule with an iron-fist. Yet, you are about to learn a very harsh lesson. One that involves you understanding. You are not the King of the Jungle. One that has you understanding. You are not the fighter you claim to be. And one that has you understanding.. you will not be able to defeat me. Your Lyons Den is about to become my Kingdom!
29
The Morning After Climax Control
Featuring: Kevin Carter


The morning air was crisp, filtering in through the slightly cracked window of the small downtown coffee shop Lilith and Kevin had unofficially claimed as their spot. A few regulars milled about, the soft hum of indie rock playing in the background, blending with the gentle hiss of the espresso machine. Outside, the sun barely broke through the gray clouds, casting a pale light over the sidewalk. Lilith sat near the window, idly stirring her iced lavender latte with her straw. She wore dark sunglasses, despite being indoors, her hood pulled up over freshly washed hair. She hadn’t said much since they sat down. Kevin, across from her with his usual black coffee and blueberry muffin, leaned back in the chair with arms crossed, his jaw visibly tense. He hadn’t touched his drink yet.

“So…” he finally said, his voice low but edged, “you gonna tell me what that was last night?”

Lilith didn’t look up. “You’re gonna have to be more specific.”

Kevin scoffed, shaking his head. [color=green#67BF61]“Don’t do that. Don’t play dumb with me. You know exactly what I’m talking about Lilith. Bella. The handshake. The fake little smile. You acting like it didn’t take everything in you to not roll your eyes the whole time.”[/color] He grumbled. “That face like bullshit.”

Lilith sighed, leaning back in her chair and finally removing her sunglasses. Her eyes were tired but defiant. “It wasn’t fake. And I wasn’t acting.”

Kevin blinked. “Wait—what?”

“I shook her hand because she earned it,” she said, meeting his gaze. “I went to war with her out there, Kevin. She pushed me harder than I thought she could. And when it was over… I don’t know. It felt right.”

Kevin leaned in now, voice sharper. “Since when do you do what feels right? You’ve spent your whole career tearing people down and making sure no one forgets that you don’t give a damn about anyone but yourself. That’s the Lilith I know. That’s what the fans expect from you Lilith. The Unhinged and crazy one.”

She didn’t flinch. “Maybe I’m tired of being who everyone expects. Maybe I’m tired of being overlooked. SHE didn’t overlook me.”

Silence fell between them for a moment, broken only by the clang of a spoon hitting ceramic from a nearby table. Kevin stared at her, his brow furrowed in something between concern and confusion.

“Is this about trying to be liked now?” he asked, his tone softer. “Because… I get it if it is. But that’s not how you survive in this business. You start showing respect, shaking hands, playing the honorable vet—you lose your edge. That’s how people start seeing you as soft.”

Lilith let out a dry laugh. “You think shaking her hand made me soft?”

“I think it looked like the beginning of you going soft,” he said. “And yeah, it worries me. Because that’s not you.”

She leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table. “No. What worries you is that I’m making decisions without you. That I didn’t ask you what to do or how to act or whether I should show Bella a shred of respect after we nearly killed each other out there.”

Kevin recoiled slightly. “That’s not what this is about.”

“Isn’t it?” she challenged. “You’re always talking about loyalty, about keeping our image strong, but the truth is… I’m not your image. I’m mine. And if I decide to show someone a little respect—just once—it doesn’t make me weak. It makes me layered. Complicated. Real.”

Kevin looked away for a moment, chewing on the inside of his cheek. “You’ve never cared about being real before.”

“Maybe I’m allowed to change,” she said quietly. “Maybe I’m growing. You should try it sometime.”

The silence that followed was heavier than before, but it wasn’t hostile. It was thoughtful. Kevin’s hand slowly reached for his coffee, fingers drumming against the side of the cup.

“You still don’t like her, right?” he asked, eyes narrowing slightly.

Lilith smirked. “Not even a little. It’s just respect.”

Kevin cracked a smile. “Okay. I can live with that.”

She leaned back again, sipping her latte. “Good. Because next time I see her? That handshake is off the table. I was agreeing with her about Mercedes. It doesn’t change the fact that I plan on walking out with the gold at Summer XXXtreme.”

Kevin lifted his cup in a mock toast. “Now that’s the Lilith I know.”

Lilith raised her brow. “Maybe. Or maybe I’m just keeping you guessing.”



That belt is mine

The air was still, heavy with silence, save for the soft creak of an old wooden chair beneath her. Lilith sat alone, hunched forward slightly, forearms resting on her thighs, long hair curtaining her face like a veil. The light above flickered once, but she didn’t react. There was no camera crew, no director barking orders, no arena noise to drown her out—just her voice, low and coiled with purpose, ready to strike.

“You ever notice how people talk about pressure like it’s some tragic affliction?” she muttered, mostly to herself, but with just enough edge to suggest she wanted to be heard. “Like it’s some weight that’s gonna crush them if they don’t cry loud enough for sympathy.” Her lip curled, eyes narrowing as she leaned back against the wall, staring at the empty space in front of her as if someone was standing there, listening. “People forget pressure makes diamonds. And bombs.”

A beat passed, long enough for her to pull a cigarette from her jacket pocket. She didn’t light it. Just rolled it between her fingers as if that alone grounded her. “I’m both.”

She sat like that for a while, letting the words hang in the air. Then she exhaled a humorless chuckle. “I’ve been quiet lately. Not gone. Not dead. Just... waiting. Letting everyone else scream into the void, hoping someone notices them before the lights go out. And now?” She glanced sideways, almost smiling. Almost. “Now it’s my turn.”

Her fingers tapped a rhythm against her knee, impatient, like a song only she knew. “So we’ve got Bella Madison. And Mercedes Vargas.” Her tone shifted—Bella’s name spoken with the barest flicker of warmth, Mercedes’ spat like poison. “What a beautiful little pairing of contrasts. Like a sunbeam and a rotting corpse.”

Lilith tilted her head, finally looking directly ahead, her expression tightening. “Let’s get one thing straight right now. You don’t know me. You think you do. You’ve seen me grin while I twist people into shapes they weren’t meant to survive in, and you think that’s the whole story. But you’ve barely scraped the surface.”

She tossed the cigarette to the floor, untouched. “I’m not a gatekeeper. I’m not a villain. I’m not your final boss or your little morality test. I’m not here to teach you anything.” Her voice dropped. “I’m a consequence. And consequences don’t give warnings.”

She stood now, pacing slowly, arms folded, head tilted as if deep in thought. “Bella Madison. I respect you. There, I said it. You earned that, every second of it. You fought, and you bled, and you got up when most would’ve stayed down. I see you. I respect you. But don’t you dare think that means I’m gonna go easy on you.”

Her eyes flared with something sharp and primal. “Because I’ve suffered too long. Fought too hard. Died and came back too many times to hand over anything to anyone. Especially not to someone who still believes this place runs on heart. You want to beat me? You better be ready to rip that respect right out of my hands. Because I’m not giving it away, and I’m sure as hell not going down easy.”

She stopped pacing and let out a slow breath. That respect, real as it was, had limits. Limits that Bella was about to learn the hard way.

“And then there’s her,” Lilith growled, venom practically dripping from her lips. “Mercedes Vargas.”

Her posture shifted, stiffening, hands clenching at her sides. Every trace of amusement or nuance drained from her face. “If there’s a bottom-feeder in this industry, it’s her. Living off borrowed time and stolen legacies. Clinging to relevance like a parasite sucking blood from a host that forgot she was ever even there.”

She sneered. “You’re not a legend, Mercedes. You’re a leftover. A has-been who never really was. You’re what happens when someone mistakes tenure for greatness. All that time, and nothing to show for it but bitterness and cheap shots.”

Lilith’s voice cracked slightly—not with weakness, but with the weight of hatred that had been festering too long.“You made this personal. Years of slander. Of smug little side-eyes and petty digs and passive-aggressive jabs. You thought I wouldn’t remember? I do. I remember everything. And now you get to pay for it.”

Her hands spread slightly as if welcoming the chaos she knew was coming. “You’re not walking into a wrestling match, Mercedes. You’re walking into a damn reckoning. And when I’m done with you, you won’t be able to leech off this industry anymore. There won’t be any nostalgia to cling to. No fans chanting your name out of pity. Just silence. Just me standing over you, wondering if maybe I should’ve hit you harder.”

She paused, and when she spoke again, her voice was colder. “I’m not coming for the win. I’m coming for the scars. The memories. I want your screams echoing long after the show’s over.”

Another silence, this one heavier than before. Lilith stepped closer to the imaginary camera, her face calm but her eyes wild. “Bella, I’ll fight you. I’ll push you further than anyone ever has. I’ll make you question everything you believe in. And maybe—maybe—if you’re still standing when it’s over, I’ll shake your hand again.”

Her voice lowered to a whisper now. “But Mercedes? I want you crawling. I want you begging. I want you broken. I want you bleeding.”

Lilith didn’t leave the room. She just walked a few steps, letting the weight of her boots echo across the floor. Her hands shook—not with fear, but with anticipation. With desire. There was a storm inside her, and it was growing more violent by the second. Her breathing was uneven now, not from exhaustion, but restraint. Because there was still so much more to say.

“I’ve never been the hero. Never been the woman you write bedtime stories about. And I’m not about to start pretending to be now just because people suddenly want to call me ‘legacy’ like it’s a compliment. Like I’m some elder stateswoman they can trot out for nostalgia points.”

She turned around sharply, eyes narrowing into the lens. “I’m not your legacy act. I’m not here to pass the torch. If you want the fire, you’re gonna have to burn with me.”

She grabbed a chair and kicked it over without warning, sending it skidding across the floor with a violent clang. “Bella, you’ve got guts. You’ve got heart. But you’ve also got something worse than fear: hope. And that makes you vulnerable. That makes you breakable. And I don’t want to break you, Bella. Not because I care about you—but because I want you to stay whole long enough to realize how badly you lost.”

She paced again, this time faster. Frenzied energy began to creep in as her voice raised. “You want it so bad, don’t you? To prove to the world you belong. That you’re not just a name carrying momentum, that you’re not living in the shadow of anything. But you’re not getting that proof from me. Not without pain. Not without war. And maybe not even then.”

Her gaze dropped, and her fingers flexed, like claws itching to be used. “You’re going to walk into that ring thinking this is your moment. And I’m going to make sure it’s the moment that ruins you. I’m going to take all that faith you have—in yourself, in this business, in the idea of fairness—and I’m going to grind it into dust beneath my boot.”

She paused to lean against the wall, chest rising and falling rapidly. Her lips parted slightly, as if the fury was catching up to her. “And Mercedes… God, Mercedes. The truth is, I’ve been waiting to get my hands on you for years. You don’t get to call yourself a queen when all you’ve ever ruled is the wasteland you helped create.”

Her voice trembled with rage now. “I’ve watched you slither through locker rooms, poison every well, turn everything into some twisted competition that no one else agreed to be part of. You’re not a competitor. You’re a saboteur. You survive by dragging everyone else down into the pit with you, because you’ve long since forgotten how to rise.”

She closed her eyes for a moment, and when they opened again, they were almost wet. Not with sadness. With fury. With something primal. “You talk about legacy like it’s yours by default. Like time alone earns you respect. But all the time in the world won’t fix the rot, Mercedes. And I’m done watching you infect everything I care about.”

She pushed off the wall and pointed toward the darkness as if Mercedes was standing there in the flesh. “I want to hurt you. Not just beat you. Not just outsmart or outfight you. I want you to wake up every day for the rest of your life and remember that I took something from you. That I carved my name into your ribs and you couldn’t do a damn thing about it.”

Her voice dropped again, almost eerily calm. “I want you to suffer, Mercedes. Because that’s the only thing you’ve ever given anyone else. It’s fitting. Poetic. And long overdue.”

She took another slow breath, long and deep, holding it until her shoulders settled, and her voice came out a near whisper. “There’s no redemption here. No handshake. No grace. This ends with one of us dragging what’s left of the other back into the dark. And I don’t plan on being the one left behind.”

Lilith stayed there, unmoving. Breathing. Listening to the silence like it whispered her name. Her lips parted, and her tongue pressed against the back of her teeth as if to taste the next words before she gave them shape.

“I’ve spent nights staring at the ceiling… replaying every second I ever gave to people who didn’t deserve me. Every match. Every promo. Every handshake I forced myself to give to keep the peace in a warzone that never wanted peace to begin with.” Her fingers curled into fists. “And your name, Mercedes… it always came up first.”

A low laugh escaped her throat. No humor. No joy. Just something jagged and broken. “You’re the kind of woman who walks into a burning building and blames the ashes for being dirty. You’ve built nothing. You’ve preserved nothing. You’ve only taken. Credit. Oxygen. Spotlight. Everything.”

Lilith stepped forward again, voice rising—not in volume, but intensity. “You think time is your friend. That because you’ve been here, that means you matter. That you’re untouchable. But time is a liar, Mercedes. Time is a thief. And I’m the blade waiting in its shadow.”

She tilted her head slowly, like she was studying the idea of it. “It would be easy to just beat you. To pin you clean and leave you humiliated. But I don’t want that. That’s mercy. You don’t deserve mercy. You deserve fear. The kind that creeps in when the arena goes dark, and you wonder if maybe—just maybe—I’m still there. Waiting. Breathing behind the curtain. Watching you.”

Lilith ran a hand through her hair, pushing it back from her face, revealing the wide, dangerous eyes of a woman who had nothing left to prove—but everything left to destroy. “You’re going to learn what happens when someone finally stops playing by the rules you bent. You’re going to learn what it feels like when someone doesn’t care about your name, your years, your stats… only your screams.”

The rage started to fold in on itself now, becoming something else—something colder. Lilith leaned against the concrete wall, tapping her fingernails against it, letting the small noise carry. “And Bella…”

Her tone shifted again—gentler, but not soft. Never soft. “You… confuse me.” She let that confession hang there, uncomfortable and raw. “I see you and I think, ‘She could be the one.’ The one who doesn’t lose herself. The one who doesn’t rot from the inside out when this business finally sinks its claws in deep enough to scar her.” She looked up, voice caught between respect and sorrow. “But then I remember… this place doesn’t allow survivors. Not without a cost.”

Lilith stood upright again, shoulders rolling, neck cracking as she shifted the weight of everything she carried. “I want to believe in you, Bella. I do. But belief is a luxury I had beaten out of me a long time ago. And in that ring, I won’t hold onto that belief. I’ll try to drown it. Smother it. Because that’s the only way I know how to survive now.”

Her jaw clenched. “And if you still manage to crawl out of that wreckage with your pride intact? Then maybe… maybe I’ll look you in the eye when it’s over. Maybe I’ll call you more than just another name.”

Her voice dropped again—dead calm. “But don’t misunderstand me. I’m not fighting for you. I’m not fighting to test you. I’m fighting because I have to. Because the only thing that makes me feel real anymore is the sound of bodies breaking under mine. I need this. I need it the way addicts need breath and priests need forgiveness.”

She looked down at her hands, flexing her fingers like they weren’t hers. “This is all I have. And I’ll set fire to both of you to make sure I keep it.” A long silence followed. Lilith didn’t move. Just let her words rot in the air like smoke. Then something shifted. A smile—not wide, not crazed, but knowing—curled at the edge of her lips. It was the smile of someone who had already made peace with the monster in the mirror.

“You know what no one ever tells you?” she asked, barely above a whisper. “The moment before a match… the exact moment… right before your music hits and you walk through the curtain… there’s this pause. This breathless little second where time freezes. Where anything can happen. You can win. You can lose. You can die.”

Her eyes gleamed. “And in that second? I feel alive. That second belongs to me. That’s the part you can’t train for. You can’t fake it. And neither of you know what to do with it. But me?” She tapped her chest once. “I live there.” She backed away from the wall now, movements slower, deliberate. Her voice dropped again—lower than before, nearly inaudible except for the rage that coated every word.

“So come get it. Come take your shot. Hope, heart, history—bring it all. Drag it with you like it’s going to protect you. Let the fans scream your names like prayers. Let the lights shine like halos. Because the second that bell rings, I stop being a woman. I become punishment.”

She stepped into the dim center of the room, where the only light flickered above her like a dying heartbeat.

“I’ll paint the canvas with your legacy, Mercedes. I’ll smother you with the weight of everything you should have let go of ten years ago. And I’ll tear through you, Bella, not because I want to—but because I have to prove that no one is safe. Not even the ones I respect.”

She tilted her head again, voice now so soft it felt almost like a lullaby. “This isn’t a triple threat. This is a ritual. A bloodletting. And I’m not walking out empty-handed. I’m walking out with your fear. Your silence. Your shattered sense of control.”

Her eyes closed. Just for a moment. “Because chaos doesn’t choose favorites. And neither do I.”

The room fell into silence again. Not peace. Never peace. Just the quiet that came after something primal finished speaking through her. Lilith exhaled slowly, cracking her knuckles, letting the rage settle like dust. She didn’t need to scream. She didn’t need fireworks or metaphors. Not anymore. She had bled all the poison out, word by word, and now there was only resolve.

Only the certainty that someone was going to suffer—and it wasn’t going to be her.



Face to Face and Heart to Heart
Featuring: Bella Madison


Two hours later, the arena was dim and nearly empty. Echoes of earlier matches still clung to the air like ghost smoke. Lilith stood alone in the center of the ring, arms crossed, head down, the faint buzz of the fluorescent lights casting her shadow in long, broken lines across the canvas. A door opened somewhere backstage. Footsteps. Soft. Controlled.

Bella.

She didn’t say anything at first. Just stood at the edge of the ramp, arms folded, face unreadable. She was out of her ring gear now—jeans, a loose flannel shirt, hair pulled back.

“You don’t have to be here,” she said at last.

“I am here,” Lilith replied, not turning.

“Because of me?”

“No. Because of me,” Lilith echoed. “This place feels different now. I had to stand in the middle of it again. Without noise. Without chants. Just… truth.”

Bella stepped closer, cautiously, like approaching a wounded animal. “You shook my hand.”

“I know.” Lilith nodded her head.

“You didn’t have to.” Bella looked at her calmly.

There was a shrug from Lilith. “I know.”

Bella let the silence fall again. “You scared me,” she admitted quietly.

Lilith turned now, eyes sharp. “Good.”

“But not in the way you used to,” Bella continued. “Not the chair throwing, table smashing, voice in your face scary. You scared me because for the first time… I believed you were actually you. Not the version for the cameras.”

Lilith didn’t blink. “Then don’t get comfortable. That version of me is still in here. She just has new teeth.”

Bella nodded once, slowly. “I’ll be ready.”

Lilith smirked. “I hope so. Because next time? I’m not interested in handshakes.”

Bella’s expression shifted, lips curling slightly. “Neither am I.”

They locked eyes for a long moment—neither hostile nor friendly. Something deeper. Respect twisted with the scent of blood still drying in the corners of the ring. Lilith turned and climbed out of the ring, boots hitting the floor with a hollow thud. She didn’t look back.



Coffee and Text messages
Featuring: Kevin Carter


Later that night, Kevin sat alone in the same coffee shop. The indie rock still played, quieter now, almost like a whisper. He stared out the window, steam curling up from his fresh cup. The sky was ink-black now. The rain had stopped.

His phone buzzed.

Lilith: Told Bella she was right about Mercedes.

Another buzz.

Lilith: But I’m still taking her head off next time.

Kevin chuckled to himself, shaking his head.

“Undeniable,” he murmured. “God help us all.”
30
Supercard Roleplays / BLOOD FOR BLOOD
« Last post by "Scumbag" Kevin Carter on July 11, 2025, 03:32:52 PM »



July 6th, 2025
Grand Junction, Colorado
Community Hospital

The shot was slowly starting to open itself up. At first the bright lights of this room were blinding, allowing the cameras to adjust. Upon doing so there was a very familiar entity right before them all. His entire face was covered in blood. Thankfully the open wound had cotted itself for the most part. Not as much heavy flow, but it was clear stitches would be required. That nasty glare coming through the blood stained face of Kevin. Looking right at the camera before him.

“Bravo... Brav-Fucking-O!”

His hands were clapping together in the most sarcastic way possible.

“Must feel like you’re on top of the world right about now huh? Like you’ve managed to finally prove yourself to be everything you’ve been saying you are for years. And, for no other reason than you were able to get one over on me. All because you were able to get ahead of the curb and make me bleed in front of the world tonight. Yet, you are always so wrapped up in your own bullshit.”

“Your own narrative. Your own story telling. Focusing on all of that. It always has you missing something. In this case you are missing something huge. I’ve never once had a problem bleeding, Alexander. This doesn’t fucking bother me the way you think it does. This isn’t getting under my skin. This isn’t giving you any mental edge. This doesn’t make me fear you!”


That frustration inside of the man boiling over so much. Carted had balled up his fist. Cracking his knuckles against his forehead. Right there that wound was. Causing it to flow freely once again with the blood. Oozing down his face. Staining the shirt he had on more than it already was.

“Trust me when I tell you, Alexander. You are not the first man to make me bleed. You damn sure aren’t the first man to ever put me through the ringer and bring the pain. You damn sure aren’t going to be the last either. Every single day I live with a giant target on my back. Live in a world where I constantly have to have eyes in the back of my head. I’m more than aware that people are praying and even plotting my downfall in the professional wrestling business. I am not wanted in Sin City Wrestling. I am not respected by anyone in the locker room. Fans would be so much happier if they never saw my face again.”

“Yet, the thing that no one is willing to accept is they’re never going to get what they want. Fans and their wants or desires have never mattered to me. I live to piss them off. Not having the respect of my peers in the locker room has never been something that has bothered me. I don’t care about having their respect. They’re respect means jack shit as far as I am concerned. And as far as not wanting me here goes? The people that are praying and plotting for my downfall? None of them are good enough to carry out any of their plans. None of them are good enough to get me to be gone for good.”

“Not even you, Alexander. Not even you!”


Once again that frustrated tone came out of the man as he spoke. The look in his eyes further backed up the rage the man was feeling deep within himself.

“Of course per usual what I am saying is falling on deaf ears. It always falls on deaf ears when it comes to you. After all everyone knows the only thing that matters to you is that narrative that you are trying to spin. The story that you are trying to tell. That much I already said. It’s no surprise when it comes to you. Which with that being said, right this second. You are on cloud nine. You believe that for once in your career here. You’ve finally been able to prove yourself. You’ve proven everything that you have always said about yourself. This very moment in time Alexander...”

“You feel invincible because of what you were able to do to me out there tonight. Blinding by your own bullshit per usual. You’re not even thinking about what matters going forward. You have not once let the reality of what the future is looking like for you creep into your head. You have not bothered to think about where things are headed. Sure, you made quite the statement tonight at my expense. But the question is, how do you make that statement mean something going forward? Yes, you got exactly what you wanted at Summer XXXtreme. It will be you and I. With my Internet Championship on the line.”

“But are you going to actually thrive in the situation that you wanted? Are you really going to be able to do what no one else has done so far and pry the Internet Championship out of my hands? You might have been able to make me bleed tonight, but can you make it happen when it matters?! Are you going to be able to make me bleed when all eyes are on you?! And yes. Tonight, for the first time in your career here in Sin City Wrestling. You have finally managed to make yourself look like the star that you’ve been trying to tell people that you are for a really long time now.”

“You were that entity that you have believed yourself to be for a few minutes. Now when the lights are the brightest. When the pressure is at its highest and its bearing down on those shoulders of yours. When every single SCW fan has decided to buy into what you’re selling after years and years of refusing to take the bait. When those fans decided to put all their chips on you, go all in, and give you every ounce of their support against the big bad Scumbag. Are you actually going to be able to deliver for them? Or are you going to be the Alexander Raven I know you to be? The one that fails again and again!”


Despite the blood streaming down his face. Despite the pain that ran throughout every muscle in his body. For a brief moment he was able to flash a smirk. Almost like he had something up his sleeve.

“I know the answer to every single question I just asked you. I know exactly how all of this is going to play out in the end. I know just exactly who is going to win the war amongst us. And something tells me that in the back of your head Alexander. You know who is going to win the war too. You’re just going to live in this state of denial as long as you can. That is your right to do so. But like I have said before. Reality sets in. Facts can’t be distributed. The truth will always expose you!”

There was one final close up of the man’s bloody face. The fire and hatred in his eyes helped tell a story. Everything that he said had some truth to it. It might not be liked. It might rub the Last Raven the wrong way. However there was no denying that for years Raven has caved under the pressure. This time might end up being no different. With that being said the shot slowly started to fade out with Carter’s expression being the last thing seen for the time being.



July 11th, 2025
Los Angeles, California
Home

“Fuck.”

The bandage had stuck to the stitches on his forehead. Causing it to stick a bit to his skin and tug on said stitches. Tossing the bloody bandage down into the trash. Carter ran his fingertips over the stitches. It all felt very tender and sore still. Granted it was only four days later, but this didn’t look good heading into this massive main event. His one word out word outburst caught Lilith’s attention. Finding herself peeking her head into the bathroom.

LILITH LOCKE: Everything okay?

By the time she had finished asking that question. She had taken notice of him checking the wound out in the mirror. She made a little bit of a face just seeing those stitches.

LILITH LOCKE: That doesn’t look good. Even with the stitches.

KEVIN CARTER: No shit.

He sounded almost annoyed. Of course it wasn’t anything meant to be aimed at her. It was the entire situation at hand. The shot he had taken from that hammer days ago. Left him in a state where he shouldn’t have been competing in the first place. Physically he was in no condition. This was nothing more than a giant target. And even though he knew he shouldn’t be competing. His own ego wouldn’t allow him to step back. He pushed himself away from the sink. Walking past her out of the bathroom. Lilith finds herself following behind him.

LILITH LOCKE: Do you think that’s going to be healed before we get on that cruise?

KEVIN CARTER: No, not fully.

LILITH LOCKE: That’s not good. That’s not good at all.

KEVIN CARTER: It is what it is. I have been in far worse situations than this before.

LILITH LOCKE: Maybe that’s the case. However, that is a big giant bullseye in the middle of your forehead. It’s going to be a target all night long.

KEVIN CARTER: And do you think telling me shit that I already know is a productive conversation, Lilith? For fucks sake.

He had rolled his eyes just a little bit. There was no desire for him to want to take out how he felt about this entire ordeal on her. After all it wasn’t her fault, but right this second. This had been all he thought about. Every scenario. Every outcome. It had played in his mind over and over again.

KEVIN CARTER: That damn wound was pretty damn deep to start with. You see the stitches. You see how many it took to close it. It would take next to nothing to bust them stitches and have me gushing blood.

LILITH LOCKE: Not an image that I wanted in my head. But thank you for that.

KEVIN CARTER: You’ll learn to get over it. I’m the one that had to experience it. I’m the one that had to lay there bleeding in the ring days ago. I’m the one that had to go through the stitches. And I’m the one that has to go into this match knowing this isn’t even going to be fifty percent better. Alexander got what he wanted. He did some damage. Hell, he did a lot of damage. He’s made an easy target for himself. Because that is the name of the game for Alexander. It has always been the name of the game. Have an easy route.

LILITH LOCKE: The right thing would’ve been for them to call this match off. Make sure that you were a hundred percent.

KEVIN CARTER: The right thing? I know you haven’t been around all that long. You don’t know Mark and Christian the way most of us do. They weren’t going to do anything like that. They live to see me suffer. It tickles them to see me at a disadvantage.

The glare in his eyes by the sheer mention of those two. There had never been any good vibes when it came to his feelings with those two. Especially not when he had returned. Therefore it shouldn’t have been a surprise with how he felt about them.

KEVIN CARTER: Mark is an old bastard that will forever hold a grudge. He will never get over the fact that I was every bit of the star I said I was when they cut me years ago. He will never get over the fact that he has been proven wrong time and time again about me. No matter how many times he has tried to bury me or tried to see to it that I do not succeed. And more than anything. He will forever hold that grudge against me for beating him in the middle of the ring. He pretends like it doesn’t bother him, but deep-deep down inside of him it does. I embarrassed him in front of the world. Folded him right in front of the very company he helped build from the ground up.

A sneer came across the man’s lips for a brief second. Allowing him to go down memory lane to almost a year ago. What a moment that was for him. That’s when the tide began to change. Something that he was convinced ate Mark Ward alive on the inside.

KEVIN CARTER: And as far as Christian goes? That man doesn’t like me. Because I am one of the few that will call him out to his face. I am one of the few that have no problem telling him he’s an idiot and doesn’t know what he’s doing. Also, I happen to be one of the few. That has no problem calling out his favoritism to others. He doesn’t hide it well. Everyone else just seems to turn a blind eye to it. Not me. That will never be me. And I don’t care how many years he has been side by side with Mark running this thing. He hasn’t gotten any better from day one. Still as clueless as ever. One of the many reasons that the company continues to struggle is because of his leadership. But when you disagree with Christian. He becomes a snake in the grass. He slithers around. Waiting until you’re not paying attention. Then he strikes. Hoping his bite is enough to poison you from the inside out. Never going to be a man to do the snake shit to your face. Always behind your back.

Oddly enough there seemed to be more animosity there than there was with a man Carter had shared the ring with. The intense look remained in his eyes. His arms folding across his chest.

LILITH LOCKE: Sounds like there is some true hatred on your end for them.

KEVIN CARTER: Hatred isn’t even the word to describe it, Lilith. Like I said I know who they are. I know who I am dealing with. This is the type of shit they want to happen. So of course it was never going to be a match that was canceled and waited until I was a hundred percent. Not when they’re always plotting against me. But even if that was something that was on the table. I wouldn’t have allowed it.

LILITH LOCKE: You wouldn’t? That seems just foolish considering the state that you are in.

KEVIN CARTER: Foolish to you maybe. There’s still a lot that you don’t know about me. Layers upon layers when it comes to who I am, but my pride is my everything. I take pride in being the man I am. I take pride in being able to overcome every obstacle that is constantly stacked against me and put in my way. I take pride in being the Internet Champion that everyone fears. The Internet Champion that everyone is praying that loses every single title defense he has. And I take pride in being a man that is able to constantly shove his fist down the throat of people like Alexander Raven.

LILITH LOCKE: Kevin. I understand more than you think I do. Pride is something that all of us have and all of us take seriously. But like we established. You know you’re fighting an uphill battle. Raven has the easy road. Maybe the easiest road anyone has ever had to your championship.

KEVIN CARTER: And that’s where Raven made the gravest mistake of them all.

For a brief moment there was a shake of his head. There was more to the story than what met the eye. He didn’t expect Lilith to see that. Hell, he didn’t expect anyone to see it. He had always been one to see things a tad bit differently than everyone else. This time was no different.

KEVIN CARTER: Nothing worth having in life ever comes easy. The same rule applies to the professional wrestling business. No main event spot worth having comes easy. Being a headliner doesn’t come easy. Being a champion does not come easy. These all things that Raven has desired for a long-long time. Never truly getting there and if he was, he wasn’t there for long because the pressure was too much. He folded and went right back to the bottom. So of course he wants an easy road. That’s why he took the route he did. All for it to blow up in his face next Sunday. Then everyone that doubted me is going to end up looking foolish.

LILITH LOCKE: Wait a minute. I never intended for it to sound like I doubted you. I just know how hard you have worked to be in the position that you are in. I didn’t want you to make a bad decision based on emotion.

KEVIN CARTER: Emotions aren’t something that ever play a factor in decisions I make. Every decision I make is thought out, mapped out, and calculated to a tee. Don’t you ever worry about that.

LILITH LOCKE: Well, based on that. You clearly have a game plan. Do you mind telling me what it is? Because after what Luna did. Something tells me. You’re going to need me in your corner.

KEVIN CARTER: Luna is a non factor. Always has been. Directly the female version of Alexander. All smoke. No fire. Let her do what she needs to do. Let Alexander form whatever gameplan he wants. Let him continue to think he’s got the upperhand with this easy road he’s on. But you along with everyone else will see my game plan when it unfolds on that ship. Let’s just say Alexander is going to have a lot more to worry about than bleeding!

Letting that smirk overcome his expression. It was filled with bad intentions. Once again Carter let his fingertips brush over those stitches in the middle of his forehead. Allowing it to be that reminded that he needed for when the two men finally met. The thing about it all was. No one in Sin City Wrestling knew what kind of war they were about to witness. Mark and Christian had no idea chaos was going to take place with their decision making. Not a single fan had an idea on what type of history they’d be witnessing. Only the Scumbag and the Last Raven knew. That’s what made them dangerous!



July 13th, 2025
Undisclosed Location

The shot found itself slowly opening up. In doing so it was clear that night was starting to fall. Just enough sunlight still lingering to highlight this dirt path surrounded by tall trees. A dirt path that revealed the Internet Champion, Kevin Carter walking down it. With his right arm stretched out and the cameras getting a little closer to discover a Raven sat right perfectly still on his arm. His other hand reaching up and stroking the bird’s chest. Causing it to make a soothing sound. Not even acknowledging the cameras. Carter began to speak out loud.

“Ravens are some interesting and majestic creatures believe it or not. Some of the qualities that they have happen to be impressive. First and foremost. Ravens are highly intelligent. Very much capable of solving problems. Have been known to use a variation of tools to their advantage. It certainly puts the entire mindset that having a bird brain makes you stupid. Not the case at all with these creatures. Along with that intelligence comes their memory. Studies have proven that they have impeccable memories. They remember situations. They remember places. They have even been said to remember faces. To the point that they can hold grudges against a person or thing.”

“Kind of terrifying when you think about it. Makes you want to make sure that you ever came across a Raven in the wild. That you did nothing to offend it. Nothing to make it remember everything about you. Damn sure not your face. Who knows how deep their grudge could run. It could lead to them pecking your eyeballs out. Truly terrifying thoughts, but there is one more quality about a Raven I have to bring up. They’re ability to adapt is also pretty damn impressive. Over the years they have proven to adapt to their habitats. From the forest to areas of the desert. Very versatile all around. Honestly, this proves that they are the best bird species to ever exist. Which is why I question how you fit in with them, Alexander.”


The very second Carter pulled his hand back from stroking that bird’s feathers on its chest. The Raven unlatched itself from the arm of the Internet Champion and went flying up into the trees. Carter watched with his eyes until it disappeared. Before finally bringing his eyes to the cameras before him.

“It’s more than just a name for you. We have seen all the social media posts. We saw what you did leading up to this match with us. You’re kind of like the bird lady from Home Alone. You’ve consumed yourself with these majestic birds. To the point it has become a big part of your personality. Hell, you’ve compared yourself to a raven more than once. And that’s the part that confuses me. Let’s start with your ability to adapt to your surroundings. Your ability to adapt with your habitat. You do not share the same qualities they do. If you did, wouldn't SCW have truly been home to you?”

“I know it’s a triggering topic for you. You don’t really like to hear about this, but I don’t really give a fuck about how triggering it is or what you do or do not want to hear. Yes, you spent many years here. Yes, it felt like SCW was your home for a bit. Yes, it seemed like you were trying to adapt to what SCW was. Ultimately trying to adapt to your habitat. Yet no matter how much effort you put forth. No matter how much you tried. It proved to be difficult for you. It proved to be something that you didn’t like. The whole having to put effort forward. Not taking very long at all for you to start telling us you were leaving.”

“Something that took you quite some time before you were able to find the strength and the courage within yourself to spread those wings. To fly away. To head for greener pastures. Or in this case for a better habitat. At least you would call it better. That is until history repeated itself. You struggled to make your new habitat home. You struggled to adapt to where you were. You struggled to adapt to make yourself a success and to be happy. Only for you to come flying right back. Not that I am surprised. Nor am I surprised it’s not working yet again... You and failure to adapt go hand in hand after all.”


Carter’s expression on his face at that moment. It was very much aimed to mock Raven and his constant failures. Such a grin spread from ear to ear. Feeling like he had some kind of advantage over the situation at hand.

“For years Raven. For years we heard you claim you were the face of SCW. We heard you tell us until you were blue in the face. That you were a future World Champion. Time and time again we heard you tell us that you were someone that was going to revolutionize the wrestling business as a whole. I have no doubt that you believed that. You have always believed your own hype. But as we have established that ability to adapt. That ability to survive when things are difficult. That ability to grow and to be able to succeed. It isn’t in you like it is a real raven. That is why you always end up face down, buried in your own insecurities, and unable to pull yourself out of that deep hole. You and you alone are the one to blame. Not me. Not anyone else. Just you!”

From there Carter began to walk down that dirt path. Getting himself deeper and deeper into this wooded area. The cameras just happen to catch that very Raven that flew away from him moments ago. Coming out of the trees. Flapping its wings and following Carter along this path. His words started to be heard once again. Further attacking everything that The Last Raven was.

“Intelligence is another quality that you do not share with these birds, Alexander. Now if we were to ask you. You’d think you’re one of the smartest people. You’d think that your ability to talk in all these riddles and in such a threatening manner highlights just how smart you are. Of course, that’s a biased opinion and we both know that I am someone that only deals with realities and facts. Not opinions. Let me clue you in on the moment that I knew you weren’t a very smart man, Alexander. It was the moment that J2H and I talked to you. We laid out the plan. We gave you insight into what we had planned for SCW. The night we decided to bring you into the fold. You agreed without hesitation. Not something that you even thought about. Not something you took into consideration. It was an immediate yes.”

“Here was a man that was one of your foes coming to you. A man that was a thorn in your side and a big reason why you didn’t succeed. You let bygones be bygones. All for the sake of having a free ride to the top. Then there was me. A man that you didn’t know from anyone. You didn’t know what I was capable of. Nothing like that. Again you agreed quickly for a free ride. And then proceeded to act like we needed you. Like us coming to you was a sign of weakness on our part. Not even considering for a second that when we came to you. It was a last resort situation. You weren’t our first choice. You weren’t our second choice. Hell, you weren’t even the third or fourth choice. You truly were a last resort for us. And it was never a situation where we needed you. Or anyone else for that matter.”

“Instead, it was a situation where James and I understood there was strength in numbers. The more of us there was. The more people would step aside because they didn’t want to be put down. Yet, you didn’t consider any of that. Showing that you weren’t smart. Then months and months later, you showed your lack of intelligence again. The moment you walked right back into SCW. Like nothing happened. Like you didn’t bail on us after we made you a start. Going right after the richest prize in the game. The very thing we were after collectively. That was not only dumb, but also a sign of disrespect. Disrespect that you were fine with showing. All because it was benefiting you. Not even thinking of the consequences of your actions. Again goes right back to not being smart or intelligent.”


Carter simply chuckled at the words coming out of his mouth. Exposing this man in the highest degree as far as he was concerned.

“You lack intelligence so much. That you thought that you and I were friends? You lack so much intelligence that you didn’t even see the screw job coming? You lack so much intelligence that you actually convinced yourself that it was somehow smart to actually engage in this battle of war with me. God, Alexander. You are so dumb. You actually make me feel a little bad for what I have planned for you. You make me feel bad for what I am going to end up doing to you. But as much as your lack of intelligence makes me feel bad. It’s not going to change the outcome of anything. I am going to put you down. Because that’s the only way this ends.”

His feet had continued to carry him down that path. Finally stopping and realizing that the sunlight was so distant. That he was almost completely surrounded by the darkness of the wooded area. Suddenly that Raven swooped down and sat on the shoulder of the Internet Champion. Carter continued to smirk.

“The memory. That is the only quality you share with them, Alexander. Your ability to remember my face. Your ability to hold a grudge. Your ability to not forget who I am. And out of all their abilities. That’s the one I actually want you to have. I want my face to haunt your dreams. I want my name to live rent free in your head. I want you to constantly remember what I have taken from you. I want all of that to make you a miserable sack of shit. That is going to bring me more joy than just retaining my championship could ever bring me this time around.”

His smirk seemed almost demonic at that point. Never letting it fade.

“An eye for an eye. Blood for Blood!”

Carter stared at the cameras for a second. Wanting those words to really stand out. Before he walked forward right out of the camera's view. By the time the shot was able to turn around. They got the last haunting image of that Raven turning its head around. Glaring back at them. All before everything faded to black.
Pages: 1 2 [3] 4 5 ... 10